EdUHK Community Drives Global Dialogue on the Future of Education
The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) is committed to fostering international collaboration and educational development. EdUHK reaffirmed such dedication through its active support for the Global University Presidents & Leaders Summit 2024 by holding a session titled “Demographic Change and Education in Future” on 3 December.
Mr John Lee Ka-chiu, the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, delivered the opening remarks for the Summit, while Dr Christine Choi Yuk-lin, the Secretary for Education, delivered the closing remarks.
The Summit was initiated and led by Professor Priscilla Leung, Founding President of the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship, and supported by the University Grants Committee and nine universities in Hong Kong. Over 50 globally renowned university presidents and leaders participated in discussions to promote the globalisation of knowledge.
The panel “Demographic Change and Education in Future” was chaired by Professor John Lee Chi-Kin, EdUHK President, and co-chaired by Dr Peter Q Blair, Associate Professor of Education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. The discussion focused on how shifts in birth rates and population demographics impact education, while exploring innovative strategies for future learning environments. A distinguished panel of speakers joined the discussion, including:
• Dr Haji Hanif Mahadi, Assistant Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Research, Innovation and Sustainability), Universiti Brunei Darussalam;
• Professor Bert J Tuga, President, Philippine Normal University;
• Professor Aliya Aktymbayeva, Deputy Vice-Rector for Scientific and Innovation Activities for Sustainable Development, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University; and
• Dr Kashif Imran Zadi, Acting Director and Associate Professor, School of Law and Policy, University of Management and Technology (Lahore), Pakistan.
The speaker line-up reflects EdUHK’s sustained effort in fostering international collaboration and supporting the country’s pivotal Belt and Road Initiative. Indeed, EdUHK has built strong partnerships with universities and governments in Brunei, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, and beyond.
Kicking off the discussion, Professor Lee emphasised the significance of international collaboration in tackling demographic changes, and invited each speaker to share the challenges and opportunities their universities face in adapting to their respective national contexts.
Dr Mahadi highlighted the importance of lifelong learning due to the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). In Brunei, he has observed that individuals in their 40s and beyond, who possess valuable industry experience, need to update their skills. This need has prompted the university to offer upskilling programmes.
Professor Tuga highlighted that the Philippines has seen many teaching professionals migrate to the UK, US, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. While there is still an oversupply of teachers, the focus is on quality over quantity. He stressed the need for global benchmarks and standards to improve curriculum development and capacity building for educators.
This year, EdUHK proudly celebrates its 30th anniversary, embracing the theme of “Education Futures.” In this spirit, Professor Lee invited speakers to share their insights on the future of education in their respective countries.
Professor Aktymbayeva noted that the Kazakh government has encouraged universities to “open up” and establish branches abroad. She expressed hope for more future platforms for international knowledge and scientific exchange.
Dr Zadi emphasised that without modern technology, an effective education system cannot be established, which is particularly crucial for countries like Pakistan. He highlighted the need for comprehensive changes in curriculum and syllabus to meet the demands of today’s teaching and learning environments.
By fostering dialogue among university leaders and experts, EdUHK continues to shape the future of education. Throughout the two-day event, our senior management, faculty members, and students actively participated as session speakers, guest ambassadors, and engaged audience members.
“This year marks the 30th anniversary of EdUHK. We have launched several exciting initiatives, including the Academy for Educational Development and Innovation (AEDI), the Academy for Applied Policy Studies and Education Futures (AAPSEF), and the Global Research Institute for Finnish Education (GRIFE). These initiatives are designed to enhance our international collaboration and foster meaningful exchanges. EdUHK is committed to shaping the global education landscape, contributing to Hong Kong SAR’s development as an international education hub, and promoting the ‘Study in Hong Kong’ brand,” said Professor Lee.
-Ends-
