Language Events

Are you ready to revolutionize language learning with AI? 

The Center for Language Education and Department of Computer Science and Engineering proudly invite all HKUST UG & PG students to participate in the GenAI Hackathon: Competition on a Putonghua Web Tool 普通話學習編程比賽. 

1. The Challenge: 

Your mission is to design and build an innovative GenAI web tool to help students conquer the Putonghua Proficiency Test (PSC). 

To build the best tool, you need to understand the PSC test: 

• The Putonghua Proficiency Test (PSC) is the national standard test for Putonghua proficiency.
• It is a 100% oral exam, assessed live by nationally certified examiners.
• There are five sections in the test, adding up to a total score pegged to the “six grades in three levels” scale.

Your solution should empower students to practice their skills and knowledge, to receive AI-driven feedback, and to master the contents of the official test effectively. 

2. Prizes & Awards: 

We reward effort and excellence. Compete for a share of the prize pool! 

• 1st Place Prize: HKD 10,000 per team
• 2nd Place Prize: HKD 8,000 per team
• 3rd Place Prize: HKD 6,000 per team
• Finalist Award (per selected team): HKD 800 

 *Note: 

• There will be only one winning team for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place Prizes respectively. The Finalist Award will be granted to the remaining finalist teams.

• The prize will be shared equally among each team member.

• A subsidy up to HKD 500 will be available for each selected team to cover expenses related to the competition. Claims are made on a reimbursement basis and subject to university policy. (Each team nominates one member to pay for all expenses and submit claims. All expenses must be related to competition and subject to University policy.)

3. Team Size

We accept both individual and team registrations (max. 5 members per team). 

*Note: We do not assist with team formation. Participants are responsible for forming your own teams if you wish to work in a group. 

4. Selection Process 

To ensure high-quality and focused competition, all registered individuals/teams will go through a selection process based on a project proposal. This helps us identify the most innovative and viable ideas for the hackathon. 

• Submit a project proposal: If you form a team or opt to participate individually, you will be required to submit a brief project proposal outlining your vision, technical approach, user impact, and team skills. 
• Proposal Format Requirements: 

               Length: Maximum 3 A4 pages

               Language: English 

• Proposal review: A selection committee will review proposals based on innovation, feasibility, impact, and technical merit. 
• Finalists' selection: Based on the review, 10 finalist teams will be selected to advance to the development period. 

5. Competition Format  

1-week preparation (including consultation with our consultants) and 36-hour development weekend. 

6. Registration  

Important: Registration is a two-step process. You must complete BOTH steps below: 

• Step 1: Submit the online registration via this link. 

Note: If you are joining as a team, EVERY member of the team must register individually via this link. 

• Step 2: Email Confirmation.

Email lcpsc30@ust.hk (Subject: GenAI Hackathon Registration) to confirm your Individual/Team Information by 10 Feb. Please send ONE email containing the Full Name, Student ID, and UST Email of ALL members. 

7. Important Dates 

• Deadline for Registration & Submission of Team/Individual Info: 10 Feb 2026 
• Briefing Session: 11 Feb 2026 
• Proposal Submission Deadline: 20 Feb 2026 
• Notification of Selection Results: 27 Feb 2026 
• Development Period (Including consultation with our consultants): 28 Feb – 6 Mar 2026 
• Actual Competition, Presentations & Prize Awarding: 7 & 8 Mar 2026 

The Center for Language Education reserves the right of final interpretation for this event.