Organised by the President’s Office, the ‘HSUHK President’s Forum: Society has changed – What about people?’ was held on 19 June 2020 via a live webinar. President Simon S M Ho and the guest speaker Professor Kai-ming Cheng, Professor Emeritus, The University of Hong Kong exchanged insights on how paradigm shifts in society such as changes in production, consumption, organisation and the nature of jobs, were catalysed by the advancements in technology and the global pandemic, leading to impacts on human lives and driving changes in education. Educators need to ponder what society needs and what people want.

Professor Cheng and President Ho thought that in a fragmented society with characteristics of virtual communities and echo chambers, people’s values and views were often strengthened by their use of technology. They observed that young people were simultaneously pursuing the values of both sides – personal financial stability, career advancement and life enjoyment, as well as their beliefs in social justice and equality. They considered what happened in Hong Kong over the past year as an extreme period filled with uncertainties and conflicts. However, with Hong Kong people upholding their core values, humanistic spirit and cultural identities, this adversity can hopefully be resolved, and young people can seek advancement in a more just society.

HSUHK President’s Forum is a platform for intellectual exchange and experience sharing among members of the HSUHK community as well as the public. President Ho personally invites distinguished guest speakers and hosts the Forum at HSUHK to share their views and beliefs. Forums will be held on campus or online at regular intervals.

Please click here to watch the full webinar.