Contender to lead Chinese University of Hong Kong vows to protect academic freedoms

Professor Dennis Lo also calls for more focus on AI field during sit-down sessions with students, staff and alumni ahead of council’s decision

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Professor Dennis Lo (second from right) held three sessions with CUHK students, staff and alumni. Photo: Edmond So

Published: 10:07pm, 26 Sep 2024Updated: 11:32pm, 26 Sep 2024

A top scientist named as the sole candidate to lead the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has pledged to defend the varsity’s academic freedoms amid concerns from students and staff arising from the city’s national security legislation.

Molecular geneticist Professor Dennis Lo Yuk-ming also expressed a wish for the institution to focus more on the field of artificial intelligence (AI), as well as guide students hoping to launch start-ups.

Lo met students, staff and alumni on Thursday to lay out his vision for the university if he secures the top job, a day before its governing council holds a special meeting to consider his appointment.

The academic was the only candidate recommended by the university’s search committee to become the new head of the institution.

Lo’s engagement sessions were held at CUHK’s Sha Tin campus and covered topics such as academic freedom, communication between management and staff, students and the government, as well as talent recruitment and retention.

Each session lasted about 1½ hours. More than 30 questions were asked at the one for students, while the event for staff appeared more lukewarm and ended 15 minutes earlier.