Media

The University of Hong Kong (HKU) held an inauguration ceremony today (August 29) to welcome new students for the academic year 2018-19. Over 1,300 students attended the event.

Speaking at the ceremony, President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Xiang Zhang welcomed the students to the University. He encouraged them to make the most of the opportunities available to them at the University, to embrace a wide range of interest and to explore new ideas.

Professor Zhang said: “Think about the world we are living in. Think about the world you will inherit. The world you will spend the rest of your lives in. The truth is, we all face tremendous challenges in the 21st century.” He encouraged students to be brave and bold, and to think big so as to make a positive impact in society and make the world a better place. “It starts with leaving comfortable ideas behind. It means you cannot be complacent. It means taking risks. Study vigorously and be innovative, and always aim high. The world is yours.” He added.

Professor Zhang concluded by asking students to look beyond a job or an ordinary career and work towards an ideal bigger than themselves, wishing them a great start to the academic year as well as a fulfilling and successful journey at HKU.

Professor Lung Yingtai, Hung Leung Hau Ling Distinguished Fellow in Humanities (HKU) was the Guest of Honour. Other HKU members addressing the audience at the ceremony included Dean of Student Affairs Dr Eugenie Leung, and President of the Hong Kong University Students' Union Mr Davin Kenneth Wong.

The speech by Professor Xiang Zhang at the Inauguration Ceremony.

Media enquiries:
Communication and Public Affairs Office:
Ms Trinni Choy (Tel: 2859 2606 / Email: pychoy@hku.hk)
Ms Melanie Wan (Tel: 2859 2600 / Email: melwkwan@hku.hk)
Ms Rashida Suffiad (Tel: 2857 8555 / Email: rsuffiad@hku.hk)