The Graduate School (GS) hosted the EdD Alumni Connections forum on February 15, 2025. Prof Chetwyn Chan, Vice President (Research & Development), welcomed participants and stressed the importance of academic, professional and social networking. Prof Chan was joined by Prof Michelle Gu, Dean of the GS, and five distinguished EdD alumni for a panel discussion:

• Dr FANG Xiaoxuan, Post-Doctoral Fellow, The University of Hong Kong
• Dr LIU Dayong, Principal, Senior High Section, China-UK College
• Dr TAM Lap Kei, Principal, Shenzhen Elite International Academy
• Dr SZE Ka Kei Patrick, Principal, SAHK Ko Fook Iu Memorial School
• Dr YU Songqing, Lecturer, Hong Kong Chu Hai College

Alumni explained how their academic and personal connections helped shape their professional development, especially in leadership roles. They also reflected on how the EdD programme created opportunities for a scholarly path.

Current EdD students sought advice on choosing a suitable research topic, the complexity of researching within an organisation and finding participants. The diverse range of voices on the panel ensured students could raise questions related to various research areas and career paths. Students appreciated the candid responses and felt more confident about moving forward with their projects.

After the formal panel, students gained further insight from alumni during the mingling session, enabling them to discuss individual research and career development approaches. The mingling session underscored the importance of networking. Based on the event's success, the GS will host more events in the future.