The 25th Annual Conference of the Hong Kong Sociological Association provides the opportunity for professionals involved in the scientific study of society to share knowledge and new directions in research and practice. The theme of the conference is "Doing Sociology in the Digital Era: Challenges and Opportunities." This conference provides an opportunity to critically examine these dynamics, share insights, and foster collaboration across disciplines. Nearly 30 program sessions are convened on December the 7th, 2024 in Hong Kong Shue Yan University that provide a scholarly outlet for more than 100 presenters.

After the welcoming remarks, the Plenary Panel, titled, “Sociological Research and Policy Impacts in Contentious Times”, was kicked off. This panel was intended to honor Prof. Cheung Yuet-wah’s lifetime contribution to research on substance abuse and related policies in Hong Kong. The keynote speech delivered by Prof. Ekaterina Hertog from the University of Oxford brought the conference to a climax. In her speech, titled, “The Data Driven Parent: The Role of Digital Monitoring Technologies in Childcare,” Prof. Hertog’s study showed that these monitoring apps have profound effects on modern parenting, children's autonomy and development, and intra-family relations and trust. The finale of the conference was a delicious seafood dinner celebrating the successful completion of the conference.