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HKBU welcomes freshmen at 68th Convocation

18 Sep 2023

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On 5 September 2023, HKBU held its 68th Convocation to welcome a new cohort of around 1,000 students for the 2023-24 academic year.

In his address to the freshmen, Professor Alexander Wai, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKBU, said the transformation brought about by technological advancements, especially the AI-driven technology, will impact every sector and individual in the community. He encouraged the freshmen to “embrace the unknown”, highlighting the importance of curiosity to their quest for knowledge in this new era. He pointed out that central to the pursuit of knowledge is the art of asking questions – a fundamental key to unlocking the treasures of understanding.

Professor Wai also encouraged new students to think out of the box by making a habit of asking “why not?”. He cited two of HKBU’s groundbreaking art-tech projects as examples, including the Future Cinema Systems and the world’s first symphony orchestra where HKBU students performed on stage with an AI virtual choir, media artists and dancers, to showcase the innovative rewards of merging technology and creative curiosity.

With HKBU’s heritage in culture, humanities and liberal arts, complemented by science and technology and excellent teaching and research faculty, Professor Wai reaffirmed the students that “You have the best of both worlds to become the all-rounded talent the world needs, and the change you want to see.” Drawing inspiration from the renowned physicist Albert Einstein, he motivated the students to reach for the stars: “A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.”

The Convocation concluded with a sharing session of the alumni. It helped the new joiners to familiarise themselves with the University’s history, ethos and mission. The freshmen also recited the Student Charter, pledging to develop a proactive attitude towards learning, seek various kinds of learning opportunities for holistic development, and build a character that upholds the highest ethical standards.

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Professor Alexander Wai, President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr Albert Chau, Vice-President (Teaching and Learning) and Professor Henry Fock, Director of Student Affairs of HKBU, welcome the freshmen to embark on a new life chapter at HKBU.
Professor Alexander Wai encourages the freshmen to embrace the unknown.
A flag-raising ceremony is held with the rendition of the National Anthem at the 68th Convocation of HKBU.