On 24 October 2026, HKU held its Information Day for Undergraduate Admissions 2026. At our booth, we were excited to demonstrate our Handshape Detection Machine Learning Model.
The activity introduced visitors to Hong Kong Sign Language (HKSL) and showed how technology could support sign language learning and Deaf culture awareness. Many visitors were very interested in the demonstration and enjoyed trying to make signs with their hands.
Visitors of all ages stood in front of a camera and performed simple handshapes or basic signs. Our machine-learning model instantly recognised the handshape and displayed the result on a screen. The system then linked the detected handshape to the matching entry in our HKSL database.
Many visitors were impressed by the quick response of the system and were curious to learn more about sign language. Some visitors tried several signs and compared their handshapes with the examples shown on the screen.Through this demonstration, we hoped to promote a better understanding of Hong Kong Sign Language, celebrate Deaf culture in Hong Kong, and show how technology could make language learning more accessible and engaging for everyone.
