Ma to swap education positions

Frederick Ma Si-hang will be leaving his position as council chairman of the Education University next year, as he shifts to head an educational organization founded by his daughter.

The government has reappointed Ma for eight months from tomorrow to December 31, since he will not serve a full three-year term until 2023.

In an e-mail addressed to his colleagues, students and alumni of the university, Ma said it is time for him to think about his future roles at the university and the Character Education Foundation, a charitable organization founded by his daughter.

"I am passionate about character education, and it is my belief that every effort should be made to nurture good character in our next generations, rather than purely academic achievements. To this end, I have decided to take on the chairmanship of CEF," he said.

He added that he has considered wearing two hats, but decided "doing so may risk blurring the line in terms of setting priorities."

Ma added: "I am also concerned that questions may be raised about my impartiality in the deliberation and decision-making process of the council, not to mention the potential conflicts of interest and possible role confusion."

He has chaired the university council since April 2017.

He said he will stay for eight more months to allow time in searching for a successor.

University president Stephen Cheung Yan-leung said he felt regret about Ma's decision, but expressed gratitude for his leadership and contributions to the university, which has scaled new heights on different fronts during his tenure.

Secretary for Education Kevin Yeung Yun-hung thanked Ma for his valuable contributions to the university in the past three years and said the government will look for a suitable candidate for the role.

"Under his leadership, Education University continues to focus on educational research, development and innovation, promoting and supporting the strategic development of teacher education in Hong Kong by nurturing outstanding and committed educators and professionals," Yeung said.

sophie.hui@singtaonewscorp.com