Institute of Policy Studies (IPS)

Our History

The Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) was established at Lingnan University in 2020 as a university-level research institute dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary, and inter-university research on economic and social development, public policy, and governance. Guided by the University's Strategic Plan 2019–2025, IPS was founded to promote research excellence, knowledge transfer, and collaborative scholarship that contributes to societal wellbeing and good governance.

Under the founding leadership of Professor Pun Ngai, IPS developed extensive partnerships with leading universities and research institutions across Mainland China, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, Japan, Taiwan, Canada, and the United States. During its first phase of development, the Institute built a strong reputation for translating research into community impact through major initiatives such as the Jockey Club Gerontechnology and Smart Ageing in Place Project, the Embracing Ageing – Health Management and Promotion Programme, the HKJC Health and Financial Education Programme, the Gerontechnology 360° Education Project, and the Youth Engagement Programme on MTR New Railway Projects. These projects reflected IPS's commitment to evidence-based research, social innovation, intergenerational engagement, capacity building, and policy development.

IPS Today

Since late 2025, the Institute of Policy Studies has been positioned within the School of Graduate Studies, strengthening its role as a hub for advanced policy research, graduate education, and international academic collaboration. Under the leadership of Professor Richard Walker, IPS continues to advance innovative research and knowledge exchange on public policy, development, and governance in Hong Kong, Asia, and beyond.

Today, IPS brings together scholars from across Lingnan University and its international partner institutions to address contemporary policy challenges in an increasingly digital and interconnected world. By integrating diverse disciplinary perspectives and research methodologies, the Institute seeks to generate impactful scholarship that informs policy formulation and implementation while contributing to sustainable social development.

As a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, IPS nurtures early-career researchers and postgraduate students through research projects, seminars, workshops, conferences, and international exchange activities. The Institute also works closely with the School of Graduate Studies in supporting the Doctor of Policy Studies programme, helping to develop future leaders equipped with comparative and global perspectives on policy, development, and governance.

Looking Forward

Building on its foundation of research excellence and community engagement, IPS aspires to become a leading international platform for policy research and education. The Institute remains committed to fostering partnerships across disciplines, institutions, and regions to produce evidence-based solutions to emerging social, economic, and governance challenges. Through impactful research, innovative teaching, and meaningful engagement with communities and policymakers, IPS seeks to contribute to a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient future.