At various informal meetings with students and alumni held in July, vice-chancellor Prof. Lawrence J. Lau shared his visions of internationalizing the University and outlined plans for providing a holistic education. He also sought continued support from the alumni for the University's sustainable development.
Since assuming office as vice-chancellor on 1st July, Prof. Lawrence J. Lau has had many discussions on various topics with representatives from the Chinese University Student Union, college student unions, student senators, the CU Student Press, as well as Campus Radio. On many such occasions he outlined his plans for developing the University, restating his determination to internationalize CUHK. He also emphasized that while aiming to raise the non-local student population to 20 to 25 per cent, places for local students would not be cut. Prof. Lau sees that studying abroad will enrich the educational experience of the students. He aims to increase student exchange, making the opportunities available for up to 30% of the undergraduate population. His long-term goal is to provide such a life-changing experience to all the undergraduates who desire it.
Prof. Lau hopes to strengthen students' sense of belonging to the colleges through college tutorials, small seminars and counselling services, and intends to have intensive English and Chinese language courses organized for freshmen prior to their enrollment at the University.
In the area of student welfare, Prof. Lau's long-term goal is to secure full residence for all undergraduates. The University will also seek more summer internship opportunities for students and provide them with an education that equally emphasizes professional training and lifelong learning.
Prof. Lau welcomes students to express their views, promising to maintain good communication with them, and encourages them to continue to care for and to serve the community.
On another occasion when some 70 alumni from the communications field hosted a dinner in his honour, Prof. Lau reiterated his aspirations to internationalize the University and sought their continued support for CUHK's long term development. Thanks to the generosity of the participating alumni, a handsome amount was raised that evening to set up a scholarship for CUHK students going on exchange.