A mood of optimism and pride was palpable across campus this past month as many graduates returned to their alma mater with family and friends to attend their graduation ceremony, the University’s 215th Congregation, with respective Faculty sessions presided over by President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Xiang Zhang, Vice-Presidents and Pro-Vice-Chancellors and Deans. This winter, an extra 9,900 graduates boosted the already over 310,000 strong alumni body, with the University’s graduates hailing from more than 160 countries worldwide.
In addition to being a time-honoured tradition for celebrating the achievements of the graduates, Congregations also provide them with a moment to reflect on their academic journeys and to consider the next chapter of their lives.
Professor Zhang acknowledged the dedication and hard work that had brought the graduates to this point, noting, “These past few years have been challenging, as you endured the pandemic and probably encountered many difficulties in your studies and personal lives. Yet, you managed to persevere, adapt, and make the best out of these circumstances. Your resilience and determination are truly commendable, and they speak volumes about your strength of character.”
He added, “The world is changing fast, and it may be hard to see beyond the uncertainties and difficulties that you will have to face. But as HKU graduates, you are now ready and prepared to face any challenges, and I am confident that there will be exceptional opportunities for you as well.”
Members of the Class of 2025 will be joining a global community of distinguished alumni who have gone on to make their mark in their respective fields. Now is the time for the University’s newest graduates to move forward, take the knowledge, skills, and networks they’ve built at HKU even further, and create their own positive and enduring impact in the world.
Congratulations, Class of 2025! May your future be filled with stellar accomplishments, joy and endless possibilities!
