Renowned scientist Professor Zhang Xiang named University of Hong Kong vice chancellor

Appointment comes amid numerous controversies at city’s oldest university

HKU council chairman Professor Arthur Li Kwok-cheung (left), Zhang, and vice chancellor Brian Stevenson on Friday. Photo: David Wong

Renowned mainland-born scientist Professor Zhang Xiang was confirmed on Friday as the next vice chancellor of the University of Hong Kong despite concerns from students, staff and alumni about whether he would be able to defend the institution’s autonomy.

There is also no clarity about Zhang’s starting date, because he has to arrange supervision for postgraduate students at his current university.

Print option is available for subscribers only.
SUBSCRIBE NOW
Copyright © 2025 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.