Turnout and excitement were both high at Wednesday’s press conference, where HKUST officially announced the commencement of preparatory work to establish a new medical school for Hong Kong. This statement came a day after the HKSAR Government’s reveal on Tuesday that it was HKUST's bid that would be recognized in forming a third medical school for the city.
The large group of media assembled at the event were keen to learn about how the goals for this new school would differentiate it from the city’s existing institutions. These journalists were informed by President Prof. Nancy Ip that as “scientific research is in HKUST’s DNA”, the new medical school would produce tech-savvy doctors, ready to take advantage of new innovations in multiple fields.
Praising HKUST’s interdisciplinary approach to study, Ip said, "We are dedicated to cultivating medical professionals who excel in clinical practice and possess a forward-looking vision for technological innovation, equipping them to address the increasingly complex healthcare challenges of the future.”
In addition, reporters were informed on how the new medical school will bolster the future readiness of the local healthcare system and the greater prosperity of Hong Kong. While the medical school’s interim campus will be constructed near to the main campus in Clear Water Bay, its final location in Ngau Tam Mei will support the Government’s Northern Metropolis Initiative. Furthermore, the establishment of the medical school will serve as part of China’s greater mission to raise its status as a global leader in education.
Prof. Harry Shum, HKUST Council Chairman thanked the HKSAR Government's Task Group for its decision, as well as the experts, scholars, and community members who supported HKUST’s bid. Chairman Shum pointed out that Hong Kong higher learning would collectively benefit from the new medical school via collaboration between the city’s other universities.
Chairman stated, “Leveraging complementary strengths, these partnerships will advance medical education and research across the city.”
Watch the inspiring speeches by Chairman Shum and President Ip from the press conference and discover HKUST’s vision for a future where medicine and technology go hand in hand. |
