The University of Hong Kong has achieved its highest-ever position in the QS World University Rankings, climbing to 11th place globally, as Hong Kong's higher education system continues to demonstrate remarkable progress with five institutions now in the world's top 100.
HKU President Zhang Xiang, while acknowledging this achievement, emphasized that true excellence lies in academic substance rather than ranking positions. "These rankings reflect our surface achievements, but real strength comes from solid academic foundations," Zhang told Wen Wei Po in an exclusive interview.
Zhang outlined HKU's dual mission of serving China while maintaining global competitiveness, leveraging Hong Kong's unique "one country, two systems" framework. The university has made significant strides in attracting international talent, including 120 top scholars recruited just this year, and has seen its number of highly cited researchers more than triple since 2018. This academic growth occurs within an exceptionally international environment, with students from 94 countries and three consecutive years as the world's most international university.
Looking forward, HKU is positioning itself as a key player in China's education strategy, particularly through collaborations with mainland universities on specialized areas like maritime law. Zhang highlighted Hong Kong's potential as a "super connector" in global academia, especially given its common law system and international outlook. As China works toward its goal of becoming an education powerhouse by 2035, HKU aims to contribute through talent development, technological innovation, and serving as a bridge between China and the world.
The president also noted the university's role in supporting Hong Kong's development as an education hub, including participation in the "Study in Hong Kong" international promotion campaign. With major projects like the Northern Metropolis development on the horizon, Zhang expressed confidence in HKU's ability to maintain its upward trajectory while staying true to its academic mission. "Our ultimate measure of success isn't rankings," he concluded, "but our ability to nurture talent, drive innovation, and contribute meaningfully to society."
(Source: Wen Wei Po)
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