Media

The University of Hong Kong (HKU) held an inauguration ceremony today (August 30) to welcome new students for the academic year 2023-24. About 1,500 students attended the ceremony at the Grand Hall or watched live streaming of the event in the nearby Lecture Hall of the Lee Shau Kee Lecture Centre.

This year’s inauguration ceremony has been given a special theme – “CHANGE – Be Future Ready”. Addressing students in a welcoming speech, Professor Xiang Zhang, HKU President and Vice-Chancellor encouraged the new class of undergraduates to embrace change, and to think creatively.

“You must adapt the changing times and uncertainty we face. It is never too early to be future-ready. Be open to endless possibilities, and explore these very possibilities! Take advantage of the many opportunities that HKU has to offer... the more possibilities we embrace, the more future-ready we can be,” said Professor Zhang. 

Dr Bruce Wang, an HKU PhD graduate and CEO & Co-founder of EcoFlow, gave a speech as the Guest of Honour. Dr Wang shared his PhD journey at the University as well as the establishment of his own business. He encouraged students to open themselves up to a bumpy, yet fantastic journey and find what they love. “Align your lifelong passion with the well-being of your surroundings and the world. And then embrace your unique and wonderful life,” he said.

Video clips of the ceremony and sound bites from Professor Xiang Zhang and Dr Bruce Wang’s speech can be downloaded from this link. 

Media enquiries
Communication and Public Affairs Office
Ms Melanie Wan (Tel: 2859 2600 / Email: melwkwan@hku.hk)
Ms Jaymee Ng (Tel: 3910 3612 / Email: ngjaymee@hku.hk)
Mr Kenneth Choi (Tel: 2859 2607 / Email: khkchoi@hku.hk)