On 19 March 2026, the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Science co-organised the public lecture “AI and the Future of the University,” presented by Michael Schindhelm, author, filmmaker, curator, cultural consultant, and quantum chemist. The event was held at Rayson Huang Theatre, HKU, and attended by a diverse audience of students, educators, and members of the public.
Apart from the lecture given by Mr. Schindhelm, the event also included a short dialogue with him and respondents Professor Jay Siegel, Vice-President (Teaching and Learning) of HKU, and Professor Rachel Sterken, Associate Professor of Philosophy and Associate Dean of the Faculty of Arts, HKU. Ms. Elisa Suter, one of the Faculty of Arts' Young Global Arts Leaders 2025-26, acted as the host of the event, while Dean of Arts Professor David Pomfret gave a short welcoming speech to all.
Citing multiple studies in his lecture, Mr. Schindhelm discussed how we must develop human intuitive skills in a world where AI will gradually take over functions directly pertaining to factual knowledge. To avoid a deterioration in our collective cognitive function caused by overreliance on AI, Mr. Schindhelm highlights the importance of interdisciplinary exchange in universities. He also stresses that one must wield AI as an assistive tool in a human-oriented process, not as a replacement for thinking altogether.
The dialogue with respondents Professor Siegel and Professor Sterken, along with the audience Q&A session sparked a dynamic exchange of varied perspectives among educators and students. Mr. Schindhelm, the respondents, and audience members held an illuminating conversation about the philosophy of education and expertise, and practical pedagogical measures in the age of AI.
Michael Schindhelm is known for his multifaceted contributions to the arts. He has served as the general director of Theatre Basel and Opera Foundation Berlin, and between 2009–2012 he was involved in the master planning of the West Kowloon Cultural District. His latest projects include the documentary on Hong Kong's art scene In the Mood for Art (2023), and the exhibitions The End of Aging (2024) on longevity, and After the Deluge (2025) on climate change.
The Faculty of Arts gives its sincerest thanks to the Faculty of Architecture and the attendees for the success of this event. As mentioned in the lecture, interdisciplinary dialogue is of even more importance with the advancement of AI, and we hope to explore more collaborations between both faculties in the future.
