HKUST visit boosts Lee's higher-education hub belief

Christine Tang

The great education infrastructure, internationally renowned universities and research talents in Hong Kong can make the SAR become an international education hub, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said.

As part of the consultation of his upcoming policy address on October 25, Lee visited the University of Science and Technology on September 28.

He said Hong Kong is the only international city in Asia with five of the top 100 universities, attracting students from all over the world to the city to study.

"After this visit, I'm convinced of the excellent conditions - namely favorable educational infrastructure, renowned universities and outstanding research talents - Hong Kong has in attracting overseas talents," Lee said.

"My team and I will study how Hong Kong can build on this solid foundation and make full use of its unique status - one country, two systems - to attract outstanding talents worldwide to help enhance the city with talents and good education."

During his visit to HKUST, Lee had conversations with exchange students and graduate students from different countries, had breakfast with them in the dormitory and learned about their views on the SAR.

"We talked with local, mainland and overseas students, employed young people and youngsters starting their own businesses, invited international exchange and graduate students from different countries for further studies, as well as had in-depth exchanges on various aspects such as education, employment and entrepreneurship development for Hong Kong youth," Lee said.

"I am thrilled to know that they all like the education and working environment in Hong Kong. Many of them plan to pursue a career in the city."

A 28-year-old Korean student, Park, who came to the city ten years ago as an international undergraduate student, discovered that Hong Kong is full of opportunities, so he continued his pursuit of doctorate studies in the city.

Park said the SAR's university environment is very supportive of students trying out different new things. For example, in terms of entrepreneurship, in addition to providing fully equipped conference rooms, lockers, mailboxes and other facilities for students, the university also provides one-on-one consultation desks to provide guidance to students, as well as encourages students to communicate and collaborate, alongside offering financial support, he said.

Park has now become a permanent Hong Kong resident. Alongside pursuing postgraduate studies, he founded a start-up company in the city with like-minded friends met at HKUST.

"I admire his determination and perseverance to start a business. He has seized the entrepreneurial opportunities in Hong Kong," Lee said.