The Coral Academy at The Chinese University of Hong Kong's School of Life Sciences and Ocean Park Corporation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance collaboration on marine conservation, focusing on corals. The agreement includes joint research, education, and public awareness efforts. It also coincides with the launch of a new Live Marine Biodiversity Display at Ocean Park's Grand Aquarium.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed today between the Coral Academy at the School of Life Sciences of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and Ocean Park Corporation. This five-year agreement aims to strengthen scientific collaboration, education, capacity building, and public awareness in marine conservation, with a particular emphasis on corals. The MOU establishes a framework for academic and research projects, including conservation practices, technology and knowledge transfer, as well as joint public engagement and educational initiatives.
Under the partnership, Ocean Park will provide access to its facilities, experienced staff, and technical expertise for marine husbandry and conservation. In exchange, CUHK's Coral Academy will supply marine samples such as coral fragments, juvenile corals from sexual propagation, and seahorses for education and conservation purposes. The academy will also offer professional advice on local coral nursery techniques and involve its staff and students in collaborative activities.
The signing marked the launch of a new Live Marine Biodiversity Display at The Grand Aquarium in Ocean Park. Funded by the Government's Environment and Conservation Fund (ECF), the display features local marine species, including 12 coral species found in Hong Kong. It serves as a nursery for rescued coral fragments to support the restoration of coral communities in Hong Kong waters.
Professor Song Chunshan, Dean of Science at CUHK, stated, “the collaboration between Coral Academy at CUHK’s School of Life Sciences and Ocean Park Hong Kong exemplifies our commitment to bridging academic excellence with real-world conservation efforts that directly benefit our city’s marine ecosystems, especially our precious coral communities. Through joint scientific research, educational programmes, and capacity building, we aim to reach the public broadly and inspire the next generation of scientists, educators, and conservationists.”
Howard Chuk, Executive Director of Zoological Operations and Conservation at Ocean Park Corporation, added, “We are incredibly excited about this pivotal development. Our strengthened collaboration with CUHK, formalised by today’s MOU, will combine Ocean Park’s expertise in marine life stewardship and public outreach with CUHK’s academic excellence and cutting-edge research, creating a powerful force in safeguarding Hong Kong’s marine diversity and coral communities.”
The Grand Aquarium also includes a Coral Ecology and Conservation Exploration Centre, which promotes understanding of marine ecosystems and coral conservation challenges. Visitors can participate in guided tours to learn about coral husbandry and restoration techniques. Additionally, a Train-the-Trainer initiative equips teachers with resources aligned to Hong Kong's primary school science curriculum to integrate marine conservation education in classrooms.
