EdUHK President Shares Insights at HKU Forum, Exploring Paths to Multiple Futures in Education
On 13 December, Professor John Lee Chi-Kin, President and Chair Professor of Curriculum and Instruction at The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK), was invited by the Faculty of Education at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) to speak at “The Future of Hong Kong Education” Forum, sharing his valuable insights on the multiple pathways shaping the future of education.
The Forum was officiated by Dr Jeff Sze Chun-fai, Under Secretary for Education of the Education Bureau, and Professor Xiang Zhang, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKU, and was attended by around 200 educators, students and community members.
Professor Lee shared his insights on the evolving educational landscape in his talk titled “Future of Hong Kong Education: Personal Reflections”. He began by encouraging the audience to consider whether we are discussing “A Future” or “Futures”, and divided his presentation into several key themes.
At the heart of “Future Education” is the role of “Future Educators”. Professor Lee introduced the “Social Robot” invented by Professor Susanna Yeung Siu-sze of the Department of Psychology at EdUHK, and showcased a video featuring “Digital John Lee” created by Professor Song Yanjie of the Department of Mathematics and Information Technology at EdUHK.
Professor Lee humorously remarked that “Digital John Lee” is fluent in multiple languages and possesses a distinct advantage—database knowledge—thereby encouraging people to reflect on the unique value that human teachers provide, which artificial intelligence cannot replicate. He suggested building strong partnerships among educators, students, businesses and the community, while ensuring that the needs of every student are catered for through differentiated instruction and other opportunities.
Shifting to “Future Students”, he highlighted that education should encompass more than academics—it should equip students with skills for productive citizenship, support their personal goals and enhance their overall well-being. He introduced the New Six Arts Courses launched by EdUHK, which aim to enable students to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture and history, while equipping them with the necessary life skills and values to meet modern societal and national needs.
Professor Lee then explored the “Future Workforce”, discussing how demographic changes and geo-dynamics may impact education and employment worldwide. He reaffirmed EdUHK’s commitment to cultivating “Future Talents” with virtues. He categorised talent as general, specialised and innovative, while highlighting virtues such as professional ethics, patriotism, integrity, innovation, and respect for diverse cultures.
In summary, Professor Lee emphasised that quality education should match multiple standards. In addition to academic standards, it should also promote a sustainable and thriving future for all.
Afterward, Professor Alan Cheung Chi-keung, Chair and Professor in the Department of Educational Administration and Policy at the Faculty of Education at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, shared that evidence-based educational research is essential for educational reform and the future of education in Hong Kong. Professor Yang Rui, Dean and Chair Professor of Education at the Faculty of Education at HKU, analysed the significant gaps between the current state of education in Hong Kong and its ideal.
Following the presentations, a thought-provoking discussion was held, moderated by Professor Cheng Kai-ming, Emeritus Professor of the Faculty of Education at HKU. Professor Lee, Professor Cheung and Professor Yang envisioned a future where educators collaborate, remain anchored in human values, and thoughtfully integrate innovative technologies to address the evolving needs of the next generation.
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