China Telecom and HKUST Forge Strategic Partnership to Advance AI and Quantum Innovation

China Telecom Group Co., Ltd. and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) have partnered strategically to advance innovation in artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum technology. Under the collaboration, both parties established an Artificial Intelligence Innovation Laboratory and a Quantum Innovation Joint Laboratory alongside a talent development program under a “1+2+1” framework to foster technological advancements, research commercialization, and skilled workforce cultivation.

The agreement was signed by executives from China Telecom and HKUST, with the partnership leveraging HKUST’s research expertise in AI and quantum technology and China Telecom’s industry leadership in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and digital innovation. This collaboration seeks to create a comprehensive ecosystem for innovation, spanning basic research, technological breakthroughs, commercial applications, and talent development, aligning with national strategic goals to drive technological self-reliance and contribute to the growth of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

China Telecom and HKUST Form Strategic Partnership for AI and Quantum Innovation

China Telecom and HKUST have formed a strategic partnership to advance AI and quantum technology. This collaboration involves the establishment of two specialized laboratories: the Artificial Intelligence Innovation Laboratory and the Quantum Innovation Joint Laboratory. The partnership also includes a comprehensive talent development program to foster expertise in these fields.

The Artificial Intelligence Innovation Laboratory will focus on cutting-edge research, including developing large-scale AI models and their practical applications. It will also work on creating robust evaluation systems for these models, ensuring they meet international standards.

In contrast, the Quantum Innovation Joint Laboratory will concentrate on quantum computing research and its application in targeted scenarios. Additionally, it will develop interdisciplinary curricula to cultivate cross-functional skills among researchers and students.

The talent development program under the “1+2+1” framework is structured to provide a holistic approach to education and training. This initiative aims to produce skilled professionals capable of driving innovation in AI and quantum technologies, thereby supporting the broader goals of technological advancement.

This collaboration aligns with national strategies to enhance technological capabilities and contribute to the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. By fostering innovation and nurturing talent, China Telecom and HKUST are positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of technology in the region.

The partnership between China Telecom and HKUST is designed to leverage the university’s academic expertise and research capabilities. By combining these resources with China Telecom’s infrastructure and industry insights, the collaboration aims to create a hub for technological innovation. This initiative will address real-world challenges through advanced AI and quantum computing solutions.

The partnership aligns with national goals to strengthen technological competitiveness in key areas such as artificial intelligence and quantum technology. By fostering interdisciplinary research and education, the collaboration aims to produce cutting-edge innovations that will support economic growth and industrial advancement in the region.

The “1+2+1” talent development framework emphasizes hands-on experience with advanced technologies. This program will equip participants with practical skills in AI model development, quantum computing applications, and interdisciplinary problem-solving. By addressing current and future workforce needs, the initiative aims to build a pipeline of skilled professionals who will contribute to technological progress and industrial innovation.

The collaboration between China Telecom and HKUST is expected to drive advancements in AI and quantum technologies that will benefit industries across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. By fostering a culture of innovation and interdisciplinary learning, the partnership aims to support regional economic growth and enhance technological competitiveness on a national scale.