Prof Ng Ching-Fai, the founding president of UIC and honorary academician, scientist, and educator, delivered a speech titled "On Liberal Arts Education" at the High Table Dinner organised by UIC's Faculty of Humanities and Social Science on 6 November 2024.
Prof Ng Ching-Fai
Embarked by the question - What is an ideal education, Prof Ng reflected on the essence and evolution of liberal arts education and traced its roots. He highlighted the philosophies of Confucius and Aristotle and the educational spirit of traditional Chinese academies like Bailudong and Yuelu (two of the Chinese Four Great Academies), emphasising their focus on holistic human development - fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a compassionate worldview rather than solely skill-oriented training.
Prof Ng underscored a holistic education for comprehensive knowledge, ethics, and character in both Eastern and Western traditions.
Confronted by the rapid technological advancements, he advocated broadening undergraduate curricula to enhance creativity, emotional intelligence, and artistic exploration.
UIC President Prof Chen Zhi acknowledged Prof Ng's extraordinary contributions, expressing gratitude as UIC approaches its 20th anniversary. He encouraged students to further explore and understand of liberal arts education for life-long insights.
Prof Chen Zhi and Prof Ng Ching-Fai
A group photo of guests
The audience engage actively with Prof Ng Ching-Fai
The evening also featured a philanthropic highlight: a donation by Mr Wong Nga Chung, Honorary President of the HKBU Foundation, to the "Ching-Fai Shuk Wah Scholarship." Named after Prof Ng and his wife, this scholarship recognises students excelling in servant leadership. Mr Wong, President at Nakagawa Electronics Limited, a philanthropic entrepreneur and supporter of education, has long contributed generously to societal development.
Prof Ng Ching-Fai with Mr Wong Nga Chung (left)
From MPRO
Reporter: Uki Zhou
Photographer: Zhang Yutong
Editor: Cecilia Yu
