Hong Kong watchdog launches data privacy academy to develop top talent in sector

Hong Kong’s privacy watchdog has launched a data privacy academy as part of efforts to align with the national strategy of developing the city into an international high-calibre talent hub.

Announcing the news at a summit to mark the 30th anniversary of the watchdog on Tuesday, Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data Ada Chung Lai-ling said her office would also strive to implement and support the city’s first five-year plan.

“As an educator and reformer, I am delighted to announce the launch of the Hong Kong International Data Privacy Academy, which will serve as a flagship training platform through a rich programme of public seminars, professional workshops and dialogues with leading experts,” she said in her welcome remarks.

“We aim to build Hong Kong into an international hub for high-calibre privacy professionals.”

According to the academy’s website, the institution seeks to provide practitioner-oriented training with an international dimension to help organisations and the public manage evolving local and cross-jurisdictional compliance requirements.

It will also address emerging data governance challenges brought about by artificial intelligence and other new technologies, while supporting the local government’s “AI Training for All” initiative.