Media

The President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hong Kong (HKU), Professor Xiang Zhang, welcomes the initiatives outlined in the Policy Address 2024. The initiatives, which aim to further promote the development of Hong Kong into an international hub for post-secondary education and high-calibre talent, resonate with HKU's commitment to innovation, cultivation and attraction of talents, and sustainable development.

“HKU is committed to playing a key role in the realisation of these visionary plans. We believe that through collaboration and a shared vision, we can collectively enhance Hong Kong's global standing. HKU stands ready for opportunities and challenges ahead, and we envision a future where our joint efforts drive progress in Hong Kong and beyond, said Professor Zhang.

Professor Zhang welcomes the establishment of the Committee on Education, Technology and Talents, which will ensure a co-ordinated development of education, technology, and talent in Hong Kong. The University anticipates a close collaboration with the committee to foster innovation, nurture talent and drive sustainable development. As a global university in Asia, HKU is supportive of the introduction of the "Study in Hong Kong" brand and looks forward to welcoming more overseas students, especially those from ASEAN and Belt and Road countries to our campus.

Professor Zhang appreciates the government's continual commitment to developing Hong Kong into an international hub for post-secondary education. Professor Zhang is also pleased to note the initiatives from offering scholarships and improving hostel facilities to developing the Northern Metropolis University Town, as well as the establishment of the Hong Kong New Industrialisation Development Alliance and the third InnoHK research cluster.

The announcement of a new round of the Research Matching Grant Scheme, amounting to $1.5 billion, is a noteworthy boost for universities in Hong Kong. Professor Zhang believes that the scheme will fortify local universities’ research capabilities, enabling Hong Kong researchers to propel research in vital areas and continue contributing to local and global challenges.

Professor Zhang supports the continued emphasis on the development of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen I&T Park, a key part of the Hetao Innovation Zone, into a global nexus of industry, academia, and research. HKU looks forward to the cross-border collaboration and innovation opportunities this project will provide, further enhancing Hong Kong's global innovation leadership.

Professor Zhang believes that the initiatives present a compelling trajectory for Hong Kong's future. As an institution at the forefront of global academia, HKU stands ready to collaborate with all relevant sectors in bringing these plans into reality, thereby fortifying Hong Kong's global stature as a powerhouse of research, innovation, education, and high-calibre talent.