Information and communication technologies are evolving at an unprecedented pace, reshaping how we learn, work and connect. Each year, the world marks this transformation on World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD), which commemorates the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on May 17, 1865. This annual observance invites us to reflect on the power of telecommunications, the internet and the broader Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector to drive social and economic progress – and on the responsibilities that come with that power.
As ICT becomes ever more central to daily life, WTISD events aim to deepen public understanding of these technologies and their societal impact. Since 2007, the Communications Association of Hong Kong (CAHK), supported by the Communications Authority and generous industry partners, has led a local initiative to raise awareness – especially among young people and educators – about protecting digital systems from disruption and ensuring their resilience. Through industry open days, proposal competitions and hands-on activities, CAHK invites secondary school students to bring fresh creativity and practical solutions to safeguard our digital future.
Under the banner of the 16th World Telecommunication and Information Society Day Hong Kong (WTISD-HK 2026), CAHK again partnered with the Communications Authority and industry stakeholders to deliver a series of student-centred events. By collaborating with schools and the ICT industry, CAHK created opportunities for students to see how technology addresses real social challenges. The ITU’s theme for the year, “Strengthening Resilience in a Connected World”, provided a timely focus that shapes every activity and discussion.
WTISD-HK 2026 concluded with a prize presentation ceremony on May 16, 2026. The ceremony was officiated by CAHK’s Vice-Chairman and Organising Chairman of WTISD HK 2026, Mr Alex Wong, with Ms Christine Chim, Assistant Director (Support), Office of the Communications Authority, as guest of honour. Both speakers offered encouraging remarks to participating students and congratulated the winners, underscoring the vital role youth play in building resilient digital systems.
ICT Open Day 2026
On March 21, 2026, nearly 250 students and teachers from 17 secondary schools took part in the “ICT Open Day”, an immersive programme of corporate tours and workshops. Divided into eight groups, participants visited leading ICT firms and organisations to gain first-hand exposure to how the industry builds digital resilience. Live demonstrations were paired with candid career stories from executives who manage networks, giving students an unfiltered view of the people and processes behind the technology.
Expert-led workshops translated observation into action, offering battle-tested insights on strengthening cyber defences and practical steps students can take to contribute to resilient systems. The Open Day distilled the latest trends and real-world experience into a single gateway – sparking curiosity and helping students chart their own paths towards creating resilient digital futures. Past participants consistently report that direct interaction with technology leaders broadened their understanding of the ICT sector and influenced their study and career choices.
Student Proposal Competition
Aligned with the resilience theme, the “Student Proposal Competition” invited Form Four to Six students and tertiary entrants to design practical, user-friendly solutions under the banner “Community Response Solution – Digital Support Network for Our Community”. More than 100 senior secondary and tertiary students from 18 schools across Hong Kong entered the competition. Each entrant was asked to identify a real local problem – such as communication breakdowns during typhoons – and propose an ICT or social media initiative to help communities prepare, stay connected and receive vital updates during disruptions.
Submissions showcased innovative ICT and AI-powered platforms, practical implementation plans, and thorough impact and resilience assessments. Every entry included an AI integration statement explaining how AI was used in preparing the proposal, reflecting the competition’s emphasis on responsible and transparent technology use. A panel of six judges – experts from the ICT and tech sectors – reviewed the entries and praised the high quality and creativity on display.
At the prize presentation ceremony, winners received Huawei product prizes and gained valuable media exposure. Families and friends joined the celebration, and the champion, first runner-up and second runner-up took part in a lighthearted chat with distinguished guests on stage, discussing how they identified problems and balanced their time across proposal sections. These conversations highlighted not only technical ingenuity but also empathy, teamwork and practical planning.
Spanning March to May, CAHK’s two main activities for WTISD-HK 2026 successfully engaged students and harnessed their creativity to develop AI-driven solutions for social challenges while exposing them to career pathways in the ICT sector. With continued mentorship and industry support, CAHK aims to nurture the next generation of ICT professionals who will help make our connected world more resilient.
Strong backing from the Communications Authority and generous sponsorship from the communications sector have made WTISD-HK an impactful annual platform for youth engagement in technology. By combining education, industry insight and hands‑on experience, WTISD-HK not only celebrates technological progress but also empowers young people to shape a safer, more connected future. The initiative has been credited with its positive impact on shaping the careers of many young people in the ICT sector.
For more event highlights, please visit CAHK’s Facebook page (@wtisd2026) or official website (wtisd.cahk.hk).
