The University is celebrating the achievements of recent HKU graduates Ms Carina Yu Chin-hang and Ms Kady Wong Ka-hing – two of the 10 recipients of the Outstanding Tertiary Students Award of Hong Kong 2026, in recognition of their excellence in academics, community service, and leadership.
Organised by the Hong Kong Youth & Tertiary Students Association, the annual award recognises exceptional university students who balance rigorous academic performance with a strong commitment to community welfare and civic involvement, and have a genuine passion for the future development of the nation. Beyond awarding each recipient a trophy, certificate, a cash prize of HK$10,000, and invitations to join overseas delegations, the event aims to inspire holistic growth among young people. It also fosters meaningful exchanges between Hong Kong youth, the Greater Bay Area, and the nation, encouraging students to actively contribute to society.
Both HKU awardees embody a strong commitment to social responsibility. Carina Yu is a recent graduate of the Bachelor of Social Sciences (Government and Laws) and Bachelor of Laws double degree programme, who seamlessly blends legal acumen with public affairs insight, fully embodying the depth and breadth brought by the integration of legal and social science education. Currently interning in Bangkok with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, Carina’s track record includes organising youth-led service in Hong Kong, mobilising young people to contribute to rural revitalisation in Northwest China, and volunteering in West Africa. Reflecting on her path, Carina said: “My journey has been defined by a commitment to turning purpose into action. I have sought to translate what I have learned into meaningful contributions to society. Rooted in these values, I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition. Looking forward, I strive to contribute to public affairs with a global perspective.”
Similarly, Kady Wong, a recent Bachelor of Social Sciences graduate, has demonstrated a keen devotion to youth engagement, volunteering, policy research, and cross-cultural exchange. Kady explained that she viewed the honour not merely as an award, but as an ongoing duty to continue engaging in youth work, serving Hong Kong and passing on a sense of commitment to the next generation. She noted that HKU’s interdisciplinary education taught her to approach complex social issues from diverse perspectives. Looking ahead, Kady stated, “As a youth in Hong Kong, I hope to show my commitment by telling authentic and diverse Hong Kong stories.” She added that she hopes to continue using what she’s learnt and her strengths to serve society and contribute meaningfully to the future of Hong Kong and the country.
HKU’s Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Kelvin Yeung Wai-kwok, noted that true higher education extends far beyond transmitting knowledge to cultivating young people with character, broad vision, and a strong sense of responsibility.
Congratulating the pair, Professor Yeung hoped they would use this recognition as a new starting point to pursue their ideals, broaden their international horizons, and care for the community. “Their achievements reflect our unwavering commitment to whole-person development. These awardees demonstrate how youth can combine academic excellence with a deep sense of social responsibility, applying their knowledge to make meaningful contributions to the community. I hope they continue to embrace a quest for knowledge and a commitment to service, contributing meaningfully to Hong Kong, the country, and the world,” said Professor Yeung.
