Core

Seminar 1

Speaker

Professor Paul W.C. Wong

Speaker

Ms Cecilia Wong

Topic

Compassion: Cultivating and Expressing Compassion for Ourselves and Others

Abstract

As healthcare professionals, we are called to embrace compassion for our patients and be empathic. However, from time to time, we find ourselves being bombarded by the demands from all fronts, and we feel that we have nothing to offer and have nothing left for ourselves. This seminar adapts the Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) and approaches compassion from the inside out. We need not remain in the state of compassion fatigue, but we can cultivate self-compassion and nurture our inner strength so that we can support our own wellbeing and growth while nurturing the people around us. This seminar also discusses how we can communicate support for ourselves and for others.

Biography

Professor Wong is an accredited registered clinical psychologist and an Associate Professor in the Department of Social Work and Social Administration at The University of Hong Kong. He has a background as a registered clinical psychologist specializing in suicide prevention research and mental health promotion and practice since 2003. His recent research projects encompass various areas, including youth social withdrawal behavior, the utilization of animals in educational and psychological interventions, positive youth development among local and non-Chinese young individuals, and family caregiving for individuals with psychological issues and people incarceration. His primary research objective is to foster social inclusion within our society and has published over 130 academic articles and book chapters. Additionally, Professor Wong is currently the General Secretary of the Asia Pacific Psychological Alliance, National Member Delegate of The International Union of Psychological Science, Council members and Fellows of the Hong Kong Psychological Society and the Hong Kong Professional Counselling Association. He serves as the Programme Director of the Master of Social Science (Counselling) and has received the Faculty of Social Science's Research Output and Knowledge Exchange Awards in 2015 and 2020 and 2024, respectively. Moreover, he serves as advisors and consultants of government bodies, i.e., the Education Bureau, and non-governmental organizations, e.g., MindHK, Zubin Foundation, and Youth Outreach.

Ms Cecilia Wong specializes in social evaluation and has her research interests in wellbeing and positive development. She has managed and advised on community projects in Hong Kong and Australia concerning youth mental health, professional learning, social inclusion, social impacts of urban renewal, and training of caregivers with children with neurodevelopmental disorders. She holds a master’s degree in counseling and is a certified master trainer of the World Health Organization Caregivers Skills Training program.

Core

Seminar 2

Speaker

Dr Mohamed Abdalla

Topic

Deep Caries, Better Decisions: An Update on Treatment Strategies and Bioactive Materials

Abstract

The management of deep carious lesions has evolved considerably over the past decade. Rather than focusing on complete caries removal at all costs, current approaches increasingly favour conservative, biologically based strategies that prioritise preservation of pulp vitality. This session will provide an updated overview of the evidence underpinning the diagnosis and management of deep carious lesions in both primary and permanent dentitions. Particular attention will be given to selective caries removal and stepwise excavation, with discussion of their clinical indications and the importance of minimising the risk of pulpal exposure. The lecture will also address practical aspects of decision-making, including case selection, evaluation of pulpal status, and the interpretation of clinical and radiographic findings. In addition, the role of a well-sealed restoration in controlling residual caries will be explored, alongside recent developments in materials used in deep caries management, such as calcium silicate-based liners and other bioactive restorative options. By combining contemporary evidence with everyday clinical relevance, this update aims to help practitioners deliver minimally invasive, predictable, and patient-centred care.

Biography

Dr Mohamed Abdalla is a dedicated teaching Clinical Practitioner in restorative dental sciences at the Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong. He is a registered dentist in Hong Kong and Egypt and a fellow of the College of General Dentistry, UK, with over 17 years of clinical experience. His practice is informed by cutting-edge research and a profound understanding of dental materials, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Dr Abdalla has a strong background in Dental materials. He earned his PhD in Dental Biomaterials in 2016 and served as an assistant professor in Applied Dental Biomaterials, teaching both undergraduate and postgraduate students before joining HKU. An accomplished researcher, he has published over 27 papers in peer-reviewed journals, exploring the frontiers of bioactive dental materials, caries prevention, and vital pulp therapy, and contributing valuable insights to the scientific community. He also serves as a reviewer for various peer-reviewed journals, ensuring the advancement of quality research in his field. Dr Abdalla is committed to advancing dental education and fostering the next generation of dental professionals through evidence-based dentistry and mentorship.