HKU academic independence and free speech could be compromised, staff union says after nominees revealed for council election
- Fears raised that electing ‘yes man’ to governing body will only further empower controversial chairman Arthur Li, instead of representing teaching staff
- Political leanings of new members could mean further endorsement of contentious issue of city leader’s chancellorship
A staff union at Hong Kong’s oldest university has expressed fears over limits to academic freedom and teachers’ voices, after five final nominees in the institution’s governing council election were revealed.
The list of candidates from the University of Hong Kong was put up on Friday, and includes Professor Quentin Yue Zhong-qi, who has shown outright support for the council’s divisive chairman Arthur Li Kwok-cheung. A moderate representative had earlier told the Post he would not be seeking re-election.
Dr William Cheung Sing-wai, chairman of the university’s academic staff association, said he was worried the elected teachers on the council would not speak up for teaching staff.
“This will affect academic freedom and free speech on campus.”
