VTC makes AI core to all programmes and deploys virtual tutor to support learning
2026/27 application opens Thursday with application fee waived for on-site registration at Info Days

The Vocational Training Council (VTC) continues to advance digital transformation across its institutions, strengthening artificial intelligence (AI) education by embedding AI content into the compulsory modules of Higher Diploma programmes. A 24/7 learning platform “Virtual Tutor” has also been deployed to enhance learning effectiveness through technology. Applications for the 2026/27 academic year will commence on 6 November (Thursday). Over 140 full time programmes will be offered, including Bachelor’s Degree, Higher Diploma, Diploma of Foundation Studies (DFS), Diploma of Vocational Education (DVE) and Diploma programmes, providing students with diverse progression pathways.

VTC member institutions including the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education (IVE), Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI), Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology (HKIIT), International Culinary Institute (ICI) and Chinese Culinary Institute (CCI) will offer around 100 Higher Diploma programmes. IVE, HKDI, HKIIT and Youth College will also provide various Diploma programmes to help students build a solid foundation for professional development in their chosen fields. All Higher Diploma, DFS, DVE and Diploma programmes are government subvented. (Please refer to Annex I for general entrance requirements of respective programmes.)

AI teaching enhanced to nurture future-ready talent

In response to the global digital transformation trend, VTC actively integrates AI technologies into its teaching and learning. Starting from this September, the mandatory IT modules for all Higher Diploma programmes have been enhanced with AI-related content, covering topics such as generative AI applications and AI ethics and safety, equipping students with essential AI skills. VTC has also extended the use of AI learning support platform "Virtual Tutor" to all seven disciplines, fostering a self-directed learning environment for students. The platform offers students round-the-clock learning support through AI-driven guided learning modes that encourage independent exploration and self-paced study and can further assist teachers in refining course content and assessing learning progress.

The “Virtual Tutor” was piloted in the Information Technology discipline in the 2024/25 academic year and received positive feedback from both teachers and students. Many teachers noted that the platform enhanced students’ learning motivation, enabled continuous learning beyond regular class hours and fostered independent thinking, which could strengthen students’ employability and innovation capabilities.

Forward-looking curriculum aligned with industry trend 

VTC programmes are aligned with Hong Kong’s evolving social and market needs. 90% of VTC’s Higher Diploma and Diploma programmes offered are closely linked with the development of "eight centres" and core industries, enabling students to stay ahead of future industry trends and contributing to Hong Kong’s long term talent development.

To support the Government’s promotion of the silver economy, VTC is launching the new Higher Diploma in Social Services for Silver Market and Higher Diploma in Health and Social Care in 2026/27 academic year. These programmes cover Internet of Things (IoT), AI and wireless technologies applied to smart and gerontechnology solutions, enabling students to understand the social needs of the silver market and learn how to use smart technology to develop social service solutions, thereby improving the quality of life for the elderly. VTC also continues to expand its healthcare training through Higher Diploma in Health Studies and Rehabilitation Services, as well as the newly introduced Diploma of Foundation Studies (Health Care), nurturing talent for the growing health services sector.

To support policy initiatives on “+Tourism” and the sports-related industries, VTC offers Higher Diploma in Tourism and Mega Event Management, International Hospitality and Tourism Management, Sports Coaching and Diploma of Foundation Studies (Sports) to cultivate new talent for these expanding sectors. In response to the growing trend of low-altitude economy development, VTC has integrated relevant technologies into the curricula of several Information Technology and Engineering programmes. Students in Higher Diploma in Theme Park and Theatre Creative Technology, and Building Studies, as well as Diploma of Vocational Education (Drone and Entertainment Technology) can learn applications of drone systems. Additionally, the newly introduced Diploma of Foundation Studies (Intelligent Mobility Technology) also covers drone operation and new energy systems.

Info Days – application fee waiver on-site

To allow students and parents to experience VTC’s interactive learning environment first-hand, IVE, HKDI, HKIIT and the Hotel and Tourism Institute (HTI) /CCI/ICI will host Info Days on 7-8 and 14-15 November (Fridays and Saturdays). Current Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) Secondary 6 students, parents and teachers are welcome to visit campuses, tour teaching facilities, participate in taster activities, and attend admission talks. Students who submit online applications at Info Days will enjoy a waiver of the application fee.

Info Days feature a series of taster activities and interactive workshops that highlight the latest industry trends and interactive learning experiences. Visitors can participate in activities such as “Interior Design with BIM”, “Elderly Social Services ‘Chill’ Experience Workshop”, Pet Care and Wellness and A.I. Architect sessions at IVE; “Holograms in Your Hands: A Mobile Maker Workshop” and “Make-up Denim” at HKDI; “Become a Vtuber” sessions at HKIIT. HTI/CCI/ICI will also host booths where participants can experience Hong Kong-style milk tea brewing and pastry making. Visitors can also tour VTC’s advanced learning facilities such as the AI & Robotics Lab, BIM Technology Centre, Marketing and Business Management Centre and V Music Library, to understand VTC’s industry-aligned learning environment.

Multiple talks will also be held during the Info Days (details in Annex III), including “Admission Tips for DSE Candidates: VTC Programmes & Application” hosted by VTC Education Advisor to introduce VTC programme features, entry requirements and application procedures. Principals and Programme Directors from various institutions will host talks to provide comprehensive information about programme offerings, helping students and parents fully understand the diverse progression pathways available in vocational and professional education. Students can consult teachers on-site about programmes of interest to learn more about the study options for planning their studies and future development. 

For more details and registration for Info Days, please visit www.ive.edu.hk/infoday.

Be among the first to apply for conditional offers

Applications for over 140 programmes at various levels will open from 6 November (Thursday) via the VTC S6 Admissions Portal (https://www.vtc.edu.hk/admission). Applicants should indicate their programme choices when submitting their applications. Applicants only need to submit one application to apply for programmes at multiple VTC member institutions. Those who submit applications on or before 28 February 2026 (Friday) may receive conditional offers from late March 2026, allowing them to focus on their DSE preparations. Conditional offer-holders will receive updates and invitations to programme-related activities to better prepare for further studies and career planning.

VTC has always encouraged students to pursue their interests and values students' non-academic achievements. Through VTC’s special admission scheme such as the Principal’s Nomination Scheme, students who demonstrate outstanding non-academic performance can apply for admission to their preferred programmes. Students are advised to upload supporting documents of their non-academic achievements during online application to highlight their achievements for consideration.

Established in 1982, the Vocational Training Council (VTC) is the largest vocational and professional education and training provider in Hong Kong. The mission of VTC is to provide a valued choice to school leavers and working people to acquire the values, knowledge, and skills for lifelong learning and enhanced employability, and to provide support to industries for their manpower development. VTC has 14 member institutions, namely the Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi), the Institute of Professional Education And Knowledge (PEAK), the School for Higher and Professional Education (SHAPE), the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education (IVE), the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI), the Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology (HKIIT),  the Hotel and Tourism Institute (HTI),  the Chinese Culinary Institute (CCI), the International Culinary Institute (ICI), the Maritime Services Training Institute (MSTI), Youth College, Pro-Act by VTC, the Integrated Vocational Development Centre (IVDC) and the Shine Skills Centre.

Website: www.vtc.edu.hk

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