Press Release

HKBU welcomes freshmen at the 67th Convocation

Tuesday, 6 September 2022

Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) welcomed a new cohort of over 1,000 students for the 2022-23 academic year at its 67th Convocation today (6 September).

The Convocation introduced the new students to the vibrant campus life and infinite opportunities at HKBU. It also marked the beginning of the freshmen’s pathway of academic exploration and self-betterment at HKBU.

In his address to the new students, Professor Alexander Wai, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKBU, called on them to be progress makers, and keep thinking and imagining what they can bring to the world and create in times of need. He said progress springs from innovation and it requires action to make it happen.

“As the generation who have overcome the effects of the pandemic over the past few years to get into university, you have witnessed how the world has changed, and how people around us have been coming up with innovative ways to survive and thrive. You can innovate and make progress, even as university students,” he said.

Professor Wai said the spirit of innovation for progress has always been a vital component of HKBU’s identity. He gave the example of how the artists and scientists at HKBU have been collaborating with artificial intelligence (AI) to take the development of AI and artistic creation to another level of excellence, which illustrates how HKBU is pushing the frontiers of technology and transforming the development of the arts and culture through disruptive ideas. 

“In this cradle of creativity, which is the synonym for HKBU, your capacity for innovation and progress will be enhanced by the inquisitive culture and interactive environment. And our experienced and world-leading faculty will be your guiding lights on this unbounded journey of exploration, transformation and self-development,” he told the freshmen.

The Convocation also featured sessions that provided an opportunity for the freshmen to meet with alumni and senior students. It helped them familiarise themselves with the University’s history, ethos, mission and the key personnel in student learning. 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.