Hong Kong Baptist University to Establish Private University of Applied Sciences

Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) is set to transform its School of Continuing Education (SCE) into a private university of applied sciences (UAS) in the upcoming year. This announcement was made by HKBU President Professor Alexander Wai Ping-kong during a media briefing. The initiative aims to create a more agile educational institution that can swiftly adapt to societal changes, contrasting with the slower processes often associated with public universities due to lengthy funding approvals.

South China Morning Post

Professor Wai emphasized the university's commitment to ensuring the success of the new private institution, stating, “HKBU will spare no effort to ensure the success of this future private university.” The university plans to provide comprehensive support in both financial and academic aspects. A dedicated task force, led by Wai, will oversee the application process for the SCE to gain university status. Additionally, HKBU is considering issuing bonds to finance the development of the new institution.

South China Morning Post

The SCE, which has been operational for 51 years, will initially seek to become a registered post-secondary college, with approval anticipated by the fourth quarter of this year. Following this, the SCE will pursue its private university and UAS status in 2024. This phased approach is designed to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure that the new institution meets the necessary regulatory requirements.

South China Morning Post

The establishment of the private university is expected to leverage HKBU's Zhuhai campus, which will provide students with work experience opportunities in the Greater Bay Area. This strategic positioning aims to enhance the practical training and employability of graduates, aligning educational outcomes with regional economic needs.

South China Morning Post

While the transition to a private university may offer increased flexibility, some critics argue that the shift could lead to a focus on profit over educational quality. Concerns have been raised about the potential implications for accessibility and the diversity of educational offerings in Hong Kong's higher education landscape.

South China Morning Post

In his remarks, Professor Wai highlighted the importance of adapting to societal changes through the establishment of the new institution. He stated, “A private institution would be more agile and responsive to societal changes than public universities.” This sentiment reflects the university's strategic vision for the future of education in Hong Kong.

South China Morning Post

As HKBU moves forward with its plans, the next steps will include the formal application for post-secondary college status and subsequent efforts to achieve private university status. The outcomes of these applications will be closely monitored by stakeholders in the education sector, as they may set a precedent for similar initiatives in Hong Kong.

South China Morning Post

• “HKBU [Hong Kong Baptist University] will spare no effort to ensure the success of this future private university,” — Professor Alexander Wai Ping-kong, President, Hong Kong Baptist University

South China Morning Post