Microsoft’s commitment to expanding AI services in Hong Kong’s primary schools has been highlighted through a recent collaboration with the Education University of Hong Kong Jockey Club Primary School. This initiative, which began last academic year, saw around 220 students in grades 5 and 6 gain access to AI tools such as chatbots and text-to-image generation powered by OpenAI’s GPT and Dall-E models during science classes.
The move comes as OpenAI, a Microsoft investee, restricts access to its API in the city and mainland China, emphasizing Microsoft’s long-term dedication to providing generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) services in Hong Kong’s educational sector. Microsoft has been actively promoting its AI services in the region, reaching deals with eight universities in Hong Kong last year and partnering with game and technology developer Gamenoodlesoup for K-12 expansion.
Fred Sheu, national technology officer at Microsoft Hong Kong, expressed confidence in the continued growth of their education offerings in Hong Kong, with plans to roll out AI solutions to all schools in the city in the coming years. The collaboration with Jockey Club Primary School underscores the potential of AI in enhancing learning and teaching effectiveness by providing students with expanded exposure to information and the freedom to explore beyond traditional textbooks.
Despite geopolitical tensions and restrictions faced by other tech companies, Microsoft remains steadfast in its commitment to AI services in Asia, including Hong Kong. With a 49% stake in OpenAI’s for-profit arm, Microsoft assures that its Azure AI services are unaffected by the API limitations imposed by OpenAI in the region. The company’s dedication to proving the practical applications of GenAI in real-world scenarios is vital for advancing the adoption of AI technologies in education and beyond.
As Microsoft continues to invest in AI initiatives in Hong Kong, including collaborations with educational institutions, the spotlight remains on the transformative potential of AI in shaping the future of learning and innovation. With plans to expand AI usage in more classes at Jockey Club Primary School and other institutions, the integration of AI tools is poised to play a pivotal role in preparing students for the digital age.
