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The Central Policy Unit (CPU) today (April 29) announced that the Strategic Public Policy Research (SPPR) Funding Scheme 2016-17 is now open for application.
Public Policy Research (PPR) Funding Scheme has gradually gained support from the community since its launch. Since 2013-14, the CPU has administered the Scheme. The Scheme welcomes applications of a short (6-12 months) duration, as well as research with a longer duration and larger funding amount. To facilitate longer-term strategic public policy research, capacity building and collaboration, the CPU introduced the re-modelled SPPR Funding Scheme in April this year in view of the success of the PPR Funding Scheme. Both funding schemes will run simultaneously.
Seven major strategic themes of SPPR are identified for capacity building, which could provide long-term research support for Hong Kong's development: namely (a) Belt and Road; (b) cross-strait three regions studies; (c) national identity; (d) big data; (e) smart city; (f) impact of social media and education; and (g) impact of new technology on modern life and industry. Applicants may also submit their own research areas for consideration by the Assessment Panel. The same assessment criteria shall apply to all applications received.
SPPR Funding Scheme applications are accepted once a year. Applications for 2016-17 should be submitted before July 31, 2016. To enhance the flexibility of the SPPR Funding Scheme, applications with significant relevance to strategic policy research needs may also be invited from time to time.
A sum ranging from $3 million to $5 million may be granted to each SPPR project for a period of research lasting for three to five years. Subject to application and evaluation, further funding lasting for three to five years may be granted.
To ensure academic freedom and the quality of the research projects, assessments will be conducted by the Assessment Panel comprising experienced academics. The Panel is chaired by Professor Nelson Chow, Emeritus Professor of Social Work and Social Administration of the University of Hong Kong. The Panel will determine the assessment criteria and details. All applications will be assessed by the Panel as well as reviewers, who are academics and experts outside the Panel. Suggestions and views of relevant government bureaux/departments will also be sought for reference. A declaration of interests system is in place to ensure that the assessments are fair and just.
Details of the SPPR Funding Scheme, including eligibility criteria, the strategic themes, composition of the Assessment Panel, means of application and other related information, have been uploaded onto the CPU's website (www.cpu.gov.hk). Applicants should complete the specified application form and submit it to the CPU, preferably by email (email: ppr@cpu.gov.hk).
Ends/Friday, April 29, 2016
Issued at HKT 14:30
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