As we reflect on another year of progress and achievement at HKMU, I am delighted to share that our University continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to advancing education, fostering innovation and making a meaningful impact on society.
As Hong Kong's first university of applied sciences, we remain dedicated to providing high-quality programmes that address the pressing needs of industry and society. Our commitment to maintaining high standards in teaching, research and faculty quality has earned HKMU international recognition, reflected by our debut appearance in the QS World University Rankings 2026. This milestone underscores our relentless pursuit of excellence in education and research.
HKMU continues to excel in applied research. We have consistently led local self-financing institutions in securing funding from the Research Grants Council in Hong Kong. In addition, this year saw the University's first intellectual property (IP) licensing, for a prostate cancer screening technology.
In addition to our focus on applied sciences, HKMU has taken meaningful steps to preserve and promote Chinese culture. We were honoured to receive a generous donation of manuscripts and relics from renowned literary figure Eileen Chang and her close friends Stephen Soong and Mae Fong Soong. This invaluable collection, gifted by the administrators of Eileen Chang's estate, Dr Roland Soong and his elder sister, Mrs Elaine Soong Kingman, is being preserved by HKMU and will be showcased in an open exhibition. Through digitisation, the collection will also be accessible to researchers, further advancing the study of modern Chinese literature and digital humanities for the benefit of students, faculty and the wider community.
In the field of creative arts, one of the University's most dynamic academic streams, HKMU spent almost a year organising the inaugural World University Animation Awards. The award ceremony was successfully held in September 2025. This global event attracted over 1,700 short animation submissions from nearly 600 universities across 96 countries and regions. It provided a valuable platform for young animators to connect, exchange ideas and explore opportunities in the creative industry. By bringing together leading figures from the international and local animation communities, HKMU has further strengthened Hong Kong's position as a global hub for creative arts and education.
To support our growing academic and research needs, we expanded our campus facilities with the acquisition of MU Tower. Since September 2025, this versatile facility has begun being utilised as a teaching and learning space for our executive training programmes, while renovation continues to optimise its use for a variety of purposes. It underscores our commitment to creating an exceptional learning environment and supporting the University's long-term development.
At the same time, HKMU remains deeply committed to enhancing the holistic development of our students. This year, we launched the HKMU Dream Builder Scheme, a brand-new career-readiness programme designed to enhance students' employability skills and soft skills, while encouraging them to actively explore their personal career paths.
Moreover, in September 2024, we introduced a pioneering initiative – a compulsory mental health course for first-year, full-time undergraduate students. Since its launch, over 2,860 students have completed a mandatory 12-hour Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course. This scheme has equipped students with a deeper understanding of mental health issues. Additionally, we have trained staff members and counsellors as MHFA instructors, fostering a supportive and resilient university community.
In alignment with our vision of providing education for all, we are proud to continue our long-standing efforts to provide education to prison inmates, some of the most marginalised members of society, offering them a pathway to rebuild positive values and contribute meaningfully to the community. This year, one graduate became the first-ever inmate to receive a doctorate from HKMU, earning a Doctor of Education degree – a historic milestone that reflects the transformative power of education.
These are just a few highlights of HKMU's diverse mission. As in all other areas of the University's endeavours, we remain steadfast in our pursuit of excellence and our dedication to nurturing talent. We have demonstrated our ability to make a real difference, and we are committed to creating an even greater impact in the years to come.
Finally, I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving as Chairman of the Council for another three-year term. It is a privilege to work alongside our dedicated Council Members, the University's senior management and the entire HKMU community. Together, we will build on our achievements and strive to create an even richer talent pool and broader skills base for our city and nation.
Ir Dr Conrad Wong Tin-cheung
November 2025
