Today (1 September) marks the start of the new academic year at Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU). To welcome over 4,900 new students, the University organised a wide range of orientation activities. The University also officially established the Graduate School to provide comprehensive support for postgraduate students and further promote research excellence and innovation.

President Prof. Paul Lam Kwan-sing, together with Prof. Ricky Kwok Yu-kwong, Vice President (Research and Institutional Advancement), and Ms Adele Wan Tik-lam, Director of Student Affairs, welcomed the students back to campus this afternoon and distributed fresh-fruit cups to kick off a fruitful new academic year.

Last Tuesday (26 August), the University hosted its Inauguration Ceremony to welcome this year's undergraduate freshmen, marking the commencement of their academic journey. In his speech, Prof. Lam highlighted the University's remarkable development in recent years, including offering comprehensive, diverse and widely popular academic programmes, raising the admission requirements for mainland Gaokao students, and making its debut in the QS World University Rankings. Prof. Lam encouraged the new students to take pride in these achievements.

Prof. Lam addressed the new students, saying, “I encourage you to step beyond your majors, broaden your horizons, and seize every opportunity for personal growth and development. Forge deep friendships, actively engage in the community, and grow into confident, well-rounded talent who contribute to Hong Kong, the country and the world.” He concluded by wishing them a meaningful and fruitful learning experience at the University.

To better address the unique needs of research postgraduate (RPG) and doctoral students, HKMU has established the Graduate School, which has officially commenced this academic year. In addition to overseeing and managing related administrative matters, the Graduate School will offer comprehensive support to RPG and doctoral students, empowering them to achieve academic excellence, conduct innovative research, and advance their professional development.

Prof. Lam emphasised that the establishment of the new Graduate School marks a significant milestone in the University's development. By fostering an ideal academic and research environment for postgraduate students, the Graduate School will significantly enhance their overall experience. It is also expected to help attract top-tier faculty and outstanding students locally and from around the globe, thereby strengthening the University's research capabilities and achievements.

During this week's “Welcome Week”, the Student Affairs Office also organised an array of orientation activities, including instant photo booths for students to capture memorable moments, performances by senior students to showcase their talent, and game booths set up across the campus to help new students familiarise themselves with campus facilities.