The Open University of Hong Kong (OUHK) and the Hong Kong Customs (Customs) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) earlier in offering two modules in psychology and sociology to all new trainee Inspectors and Customs Officers. Under this arrangement, those who have completed the related programmes will be able to obtain Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT) when they apply for OUHK’s undergraduate programmes in the future.

OUHK President Prof. Yuk-Shan Wong and Commissioner of Customs and Excise Mr Hermes Tang Yi-hoi signed the MOU at a signing ceremony held at the Customs Headquarters Building. OUHK will teach two modules covering sociology and psychology, which are parts of the induction programmes to all new trainee Inspectors and Customs Officers, to enrich their practical knowledge in different dimensions. They will be awarded the 'Certificate in Law Enforcement and Customs Management’ upon successful completion of the related programmes. In addition, the 30 credits gained from the certificate can be used for pursuing the ‘Bachelor of Social Sciences in Law Enforcement and Security Management’ (or with Honours) at the OUHK. This arrangement will provide a more flexible study pathway for all Customs officers and encourage them to pursue continuous education.

This is the first time for Customs to partner with a higher education institution in Hong Kong in offering sociology and psychology related modules to new trainee Inspectors and Customs Officers, and establishing relevant credit accumulation and transfer arrangement. OUHK President Prof. Yuk-Shan Wong said, “The partnership between the University and Customs in nurturing talents affirms that the academic status of OUHK has been widely recognized by various sectors of our community. By strengthening the pedagogic ties between two parties, it is hoped that more Customs officers could better equip themselves with professional knowledge and competencies to cope with future challenges.” In the formulation and execution of the CAT, both OUHK and Customs have upheld the professional principles and strictly followed the suggested best practices set by the Qualifications Framework to ensure equal standing of academic quality between two institutions' programmes.

OUHK has been offering credit exemption to Customs officers since 2004. Qualified Customs Officer can now be granted a maximum of 50 credits. Officers holding local accredited Higher Diplomas or Associate Degrees may even gain further credit exemption, thereby allowing them to attain higher qualifications in a shorter period.

About the OUHK:
Established by the Government in 1989, The Open University of Hong Kong (OUHK) has developed into a full-fledged university providing high quality and flexible university education at various levels to secondary school graduates and working adults. As a dynamic and innovative university, the OUHK currently offers over 200 programmes of different academic levels to about 10,000 full-time students and 9,000 part-time students. Our mission is to advance learning, knowledge and research that meet students’ learning aspirations and society's talent needs, focusing on practical and professional programmes.

OUHK comprises six Schools, i.e. School of Arts and Social Sciences, Lee Shau Kee School of Business and Administration, School of Education and Languages, School of Nursing and Health Studies, School of Science and Technology, and Li Ka Shing School of Professional and Continuing Education (LiPACE). LiPACE provides lifelong learning opportunities by offering full-time sub-degree programmes, community learning and professional programmes.    OUHK website: www.hkmu.edu.hk