Letters | How Hong Kong can become Asia’s world city for students

Readers discuss how to bolster the ‘Study in Hong Kong’ brand, Leung Chun-ying’s warning of housing oversupply, and a potential iconic tourist draw for Hong Kong

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The University of Hong Kong campus. The government must prioritise prospective students’ overall well-being for its “Study in Hong Kong” campaign to be successful. Photo: Dickson Lee

Published: 11:30am, 7 Nov 2024

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It is welcome news that Hong Kong’s government is investing in the city’s future by launching the “Study in Hong Kong” brand. However, before any of the long-term economic benefits come to fruition, the current administration must map out strategies that prioritise prospective students’ overall well-being for the initiative to be successful. There are at least three factors that the government and universities should consider.

Firstly, internationalisation is what makes Hong Kong universities tick. It’s a momentous decision for students to leave their home country and study in a foreign place. It’s a process that involves stepping out of one’s comfort zone, away from a familiar circle of friends and venturing into a land of unknown possibilities. It requires the courage to start a new chapter in their academic pursuits.

Having multicultural student bodies is a major factor in attracting international students. To that end, the government’s relaxation of the public university quota for non-local students was a brilliant start.

The authorities should also consider funding trips to overseas university fairs and other outreach events for the city’s admissions employees. This will help introduce the “Study in Hong Kong” brand to students overseas. After attracting students to the city, universities should organise events that foster inclusion and diversity, as well as introduce perspectives from different cultures in academic discussions.

Secondly, university professors and lecturers play a vital role in delivering world-class education. Outstanding academics bring a wealth of research experience to the classroom that can inspire vigorous discussions. The government should help universities recruit eminent scholars from all over the globe to join our academic faculties. New recruits should be provided with affordable housing options near campuses and their children’s educational needs should be taken care of too.