Many questions surround Hong Kong University's celebration of its 100 years anniversary. Arrangements and behaviour by the police and the university are questionable. The students are no wiser.
The Hong Kong University (HKU) celebrated it 100 years anniversary. (1911 happened to be the year when Mr Sun Yat-sin lead a revolution to overturn the Qing dynasty.) The Chinese Deputy Prime Minister Mr Li Keqiang was invited to attend at their top guest.
Many aspects of the HKU’s arrangement are debatable:
- Student Li Sing Hong protested as he was refused to attend the ceremony. He wasn’t the only one, as space is limited. The talking point was: the police treated him with excessive force They locked him up for over an hour without explanation.
- Why was Li given the Chancellor’s seat? In what capacity did he attend the ceremony?
- David Wilson was introduced as the Chancellor of Aberdeen University. Why was he not introduced as an ex-Governor of Hong Kong? Why should the Chancellor of Aberdeen University be invited to attend and speak at the ceremony?
But I have to defend Vice Chancellor Professor Tsui Lap-chee. He was willing to meet the students afterwards. Not many high officials in Hong Kong have the courage to face the public. Professor Tsui apologised to the students for any mis-handling of the matter, and promised to review the procedures. I feel that the students should give him time to do so.
I am not impressed by Li Sing Hong and some other students during their meeting with Professor Tsui. They did not give Professor Tsui respect that he deserves. They may not like what HKU has done, but if they are sincere in a dialogue, then they should treat Professor Tsui with due respect (as anyone should to anyone else). If they are not sincerely looking for a dialogue, then they should not attend the meeting. I would acknowledge their anger, but don't like their act, because that does not lead to solutions.
Updated 2011.10.26
In late October, Professor Tsui decided not to renew his contract with the university. The students have lost a sincere vice chancellor. They get what they asked for, which is not necessarily in their interest.
In late October, Professor Tsui decided not to renew his contract with the university. The students have lost a sincere vice chancellor. They get what they asked for, which is not necessarily in their interest.
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