A senior delegation from Queen’s University recently visited Singapore to participate in the Canada in Asia Conference (CIAC) 2025 and traveled to Hong Kong SAR to explore research-focused collaborations with key partners.
Led by Dr. Matthew Evans, Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic), the delegation included Dr. Sandra den Otter, Vice-Provost, Global Engagement, Ms. Jessie Kubes, Assistant Vice-Principal, Economic Development, Dr. Bob Lemieux, Interim Dean, Faculty of Arts and Science, Dr. Kevin Deluzio, Dean, Smith Engineering, and esteemed Smith Engineering professor, Dr. Charlotte Gibson, The Robert M. Buchan Department of Mining.
The delegation met with hundreds of stakeholders, advancing Queen's strategic efforts through participation in high-profile conference sessions, meetings with Canadian Ambassadors and High Commissioners across the Asia-Pacific region, engagement events with key alumni, and Master Classes at key international and local high schools.
The Delegation’s Participation at CIAC 2025 in Singapore
The delegation's participation at CIAC 2025 in Singapore successfully strengthened relations with the Government of Canada, identified industry connections and global funding sources in Queen’s priority research areas, and built networks for future collaboration. Queen's is dedicated to advancing alumni engagement in the Asia-Pacific region and deepening partnerships with local institutions and stakeholders.
Highlights for the delegation included:
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Participation in conference sessions, highlighting Queen’s research excellence in priority fields;
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Meetings with Canadian Ambassadors and High Commissioners across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss Queen’s strategic plans and gather local insights on strengthening its regional presence;
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Engagement with key alumni in Singapore and the broader region;
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Partner meetings that let the delegation explore new collaborations.
The Delegation’s Visit to Hong Kong SAR
During the delegation's visit to Hong Kong SAR, they showcased Queen’s research strengths to top universities, defined next steps for engagement, and explored opportunities for involvement in the 3rd InnoHK research cluster call. They also engaged with key alumni to support philanthropic initiatives and laid the groundwork for the October 2025 alumni event, while strengthening relationships with Canadian government representatives and university partners.
Highlights from the Hong Kong SAR engagements include:
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Visits to six leading universities to explore new research collaborations, strengthen existing partnerships, and explore the development of new academic programs;
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Meetings at the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park (HKSTP) to assess research and innovation opportunities;
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Engagement with the Canadian Consulate General in Hong Kong SAR to reinforce government relations;
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Master Classes at international and local high schools, showcasing Queen’s teaching excellence.
Creating a Lasting Impact
The Office of the Vice-Provost, Global Engagement is following up on the delegation’s visit, ensuring the development of substantive collaborations that are now undergoing our agreements process, significantly enhancing Queen’s presence in the region.