Saint Francis University - Press Release - SFU’s Inaugural Human Resources Forum Explores Emerging Trends in Gen Z Talent Development in the AI Era 2026-06-24

Saint Francis University (SFU) held its inaugural Human Resources Forum under the theme "Human-Centred AI Strategy for Talent Development". Organised by SFU's Industry University Partnerships Office (IUPO), with the Career Centre and Centre for Advanced and Professional Studies as co-organisers, the forum was supported by the Hong Kong Institute of Human Resource Management (HKIHRM) and 10 human resources and professional bodies. It brought together industry leaders, academics and stakeholders to discuss talent development in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), deepen university-industry collaboration, and prepare talent for the future workplace.

The keynote speech was delivered by Mr Francis Fong, Honorary President of the Hong Kong Information Technology Federation (HKITF), who shared human-centred strategies for AI-driven talent development and discussed how organisations can better nurture and manage talent in a rapidly changing environment. The ensuing panel session was moderated by HKIHRM President Mr Ian Choy and Head of IUPO at SFU Ms Joanna Kwok, with Gen Z's expectations of the workplace in the AI era and talent pool building through university-industry collaboration as the topics of discussion.

SFU President Professor Stephen Cheung Yan-leung said, "As AI continues to evolve, employers' expectations for talent are also changing. Through this forum, SFU aims to provide a cross-sector platform for dialogue, bringing academia and industry together to explore how best to nurture future talent in the AI era. As a pioneering university of applied sciences (UAS), SFU will continue to respond to social development and workforce needs by strengthening university-industry collaboration and nurturing talent with both knowledge and practical skills. We strive to equip students to integrate technology with professional expertise and respond to the needs of future society."

Ms Kwok echoed, "Gen Z's expectations are becoming increasingly diverse. In particular, they are more concerned about continuous learning, the purpose in work, and whether workplace culture aligns with their personal values. They view AI not as a replacement, but as a tool that can support their professional growth."

Mr Choy and the other guests noted, "University-industry collaboration will be central to future talent development. Drawing on international experience, universities can better meet market needs by designing curricula that cater to industry demand. Employers and employees alike must also reskill in response to advances in AI and keep pace with a rapidly changing world."

Mr Fong said, "Artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we work, but talent development must remain human-centred. As well as enhancing technological capabilities, organisations should support talent in developing agility and adaptability in order to respond effectively to change in the AI era."