The campus of Hong Kong's oldest university was filled with new faces hoping to learn more about tertiary life and old ones sharing memories of their student days. The University of Hong Kong held a two-day event for Joint University Programmes Admissions Scheme applicants, together with a triennial open day organised by the students' union. The open days aimed to introduce the university's activities, programmes and facilities to Form Six and Seven students, teachers and careers advisers. They were also given an insight into the latest developments and changes in student life and culture. Campus tours, course briefings, video shows, exhibitions and question-and-answer sessions on university admission were organised by the registry, office of student affairs, the faculties, the school of business, services departments and non-faculty academic units. Teaching staff and student ambassadors were on hand to give details of undergraduate programmes and answer questions on entrance re quirements and career planning. Halls of residence were open for the general public to learn about student life on campus. In line with the open day theme, HKU and Lingnan College students organised a debate on students' rights. They also staged a variety programme featuring dance, music and magic performances to entertain visitors. Deputy registrar Henry Wai Wing-kun said the events not only attracted prospective students, but also parents and alumni. 'It is a further proof of the popularity of the university, which has nurtured many talents to serve the community over the years,' he said. Former student Wong Ming-wai, a mother of two, said the open day was a good opportunity for her children to have an idea about university life. 'They were surprised to see the old buildings and the halls of residence. 'The facilities have been upgrad ed with multi-media teaching laboratories.' Mrs Wong said she enjoyed talking to some of the students to see how their lives differed from her days as a student 10 years ago. 'I was an activist and took a keen interest in campus activities. Nowadays students prefer to do part-time jobs instead,' she said. Sixth-former Vivian Siu Wing-yin of Tuen Mun Government Secondary School said the university had a high reputation. 'It has a long history in tertiary education and I find its social sciences courses attractive.' Wing-yin plans to study journalism or sociology. Classmate Keith Wong Man-hong said he was interested in information technology (IT) and computer engineering. 'These courses will guarantee wider career opportunities as Hong Kong embraces information technology.' This year, the university offered 43 full-time undergraduate honours degree programmes.
