I am delighted to have this opportunity to present a review as Council Chairman of The Education University of Hong Kong, a position I have held for over a year now and a role I hold dear. Education is an area that is close to my heart; my own daughter is a teacher. I believe that education is the key to the development of individuals, society and the economy. Teaching is a profession that can change and shape lives in many positive ways, and have a far-reaching impact. I am therefore honoured to play a role in this important hub for teacher education, which equips educators and professionals with the capabilities to realise their dream, and in turn, to help others to realise theirs.

In this regard, EdUHK plays a distinct role in developing teacher education and disciplines complementary to education through our Education-plus approach. Over the years, the University has steadily built a reputation for excellence, especially in nurturing caring and outstanding educators. In the past year, I met students who have not only excelled academically, but have also demonstrated a passion for teaching. I was inspired by their commitment and drive. To better prepare themselves for a career in teaching, they opted to further their studies at prestigious universities overseas, including the University of Oxford in the UK and Columbia University in the US. I am impressed by the high calibre of EdUHK students and their dedication to their chosen field of education and disciplines complementary to education. These aspiring teachers and professionals truly deserve our full support.

In addition to preparing the next generation of talent for the education sector, EdUHK is extending the realms of knowledge to benefit both academia and society. The University’s leadership in the discipline of Education is indisputable and internationally recognised. In 2018, EdUHK was ranked among the top 10 Universities in the world in Education. The University was also appointed the consultant for not one, but two nationwide consultancy projects in Vietnam by the World Bank after a rigorous global selection process.

I am also pleased that we attained good results in obtaining research funding. In the Research Grants Council’s General Research Fund and Early Career Scheme (ECS) funding exercises, the University was once again ranked first in the subject discipline of Education. Equally impressive was the success we obtained with our ECS submissions in complementary areas. For instance, in the discipline of Psychology and Linguistics, the University was first in terms of both the number of awarded projects and the funding amount.

In view of this, I believe the University is well-positioned to contribute as a thought leader. I greatly value the opportunities provided by the Education Salon to meet key stakeholders in the education sector. Together with President Professor Stephen Cheung Yan-leung, we discussed and generated new perspectives on some of the challenges facing schools. The University is also expanding its global network with partner universities around the world and embarking on cross-institutional multidisciplinary projects.

Our multiple accomplishments in different areas, both at home and abroad, suggest that we are on the correct path. We are already beginning to see the results of our efforts in implementing the Strategic Plan 2016-2025. I would like to thank outgoing Council members Miss Lala Lai Hiu-ching, Professor Ng Tai-kai, Dr Kwok Ping-wai and Professor Robert Damian Adamson, whom I have had the privilege to serve alongside. I would also like to extend a warm welcome to our new Council members, Mr Cheung Yam, Professor Lui Hon-kwong, Dr Irene Cheng Nga-yee and Professor Mark Mason. As we continue on our journey forward, we remain committed to extending knowledge and making a positive impact in Hong Kong and beyond.

Professor Frederick Ma Si-hang, GBS, JP
Chairman of the Council