full screen background image

About The University of Hong Kong

Past and Now

The University of Hong Kong (or HKU, as it is familiarly known to students, staff and alumni) is the oldest tertiary education institution in Hong Kong. On March 16, 1910, Sir Frederick Lugard, the then Governor of Hong Kong, laid the foundation stone for the University. The University was first incorporated in Hong Kong as a self-governing body of scholars by the University Ordinance on March 30, 1911.

Today, HKU has gained international recognition for its accomplishments as a research-led comprehensive university. The University continues to attract the best local students, along with many Mainland China and international students. The University’s academics have outstanding achievements in teaching and research, and about half of HKU’s faculty are from overseas.

Vision and Mission

The University of Hong Kong, as a leading international institution of higher learning in Asia, strives to attract and nurture outstanding scholars from around the world through excellence and innovation in teaching and learning, research and knowledge exchange, contributing to the advancement of society and the development of leaders through a global presence, regional significance and engagement with the rest of China.

The University of Hong Kong will endeavour:

  • To advance constantly the bounds of scholarship, building upon its proud traditions and strengths
  • To provide a comprehensive education, developing fully the intellectual and personal strengths of its students while developing and extending lifelong learning opportunities for the community
  • To produce graduates of distinction committed to lifelong learning, integrity and professionalism, capable of being responsive leaders and communicators in their fields
  • To develop a collegial, flexible, pluralistic and supportive intellectual environment that inspires and attracts, retains and nurtures scholars, students and staff of the highest calibre in a culture that fosters creativity, learning and freedom of thought, enquiry and expression
  • To provide a safe, healthy and sustainable workplace to support and advance teaching, learning and research at the University
  • To engage in innovative, high-impact and leading-edge research within and across disciplines
  • To be fully accountable for the effective management of public and private resources bestowed upon the institution and act in partnership with the community over the generation, dissemination and application of knowledge
  • To serve as a focal point of intellectual and academic endeavour in Hong Kong, China and Asia and act as a gateway and forum for scholarship with the rest of the world

The University of Hong Kong: http://www.hku.hk/