Press Release
HKBU welcomes freshmen at the 66th Convocation
Tuesday, 07 Sep 2021
Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) welcomed a new cohort of over 2,000 students for the 2021-22 academic year at its 66th Convocation today (7 September).
The event marked the commencement of the new students' exciting journey of academic inquiry and personal development at HKBU. Together with other orientation activities organised by faculties, schools, departments and student bodies, the Convocation ceremony introduced the freshmen to the vibrant campus life and learning opportunities at HKBU.
In his address to the new students, Professor Alexander Wai, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKBU, said that over the past 18 months we have all experienced a challenging time as a result of the pandemic. He asserted that challenges create changes, and he encouraged new students to embrace the challenges as they may be surprised by the unforeseen results and what they can achieve.
Professor Wai also asked the freshmen to harness the FORCE, an acronym for the five important skills and attributes, including being Flexible, Open-minded, Resilient, Creative and Empathetic, during their time at HKBU.
"Combining these individual components will enable you to become the best version of yourself. When you reimagine changes and challenges anew, you will find your way and thrive in the new world and in this new era,” he said.
"The University will continue to build on our rich heritage in culture, the humanities and the arts with the support of science and technology. This legacy will provide you with the well-rounded education needed in this new world, and it will enable you to fly high. Our transdisciplinary education and the personalised learning pathways designed for you at HKBU will take you to a higher plane, where your dreams can take flight,” he told the freshmen.
The Convocation also featured sessions that provided an opportunity for the freshmen to meet with the University's management staff in charge of student learning, and it also helped them familiarise themselves with the University's history, ethos and mission. They were also led to recite the Student Charter with the pledge 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.
Please click here for Professor Wai's full speech.
