PolyU means business when it comes to creating a better world

The decision of the Faculty of Business at Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) to host this July’s 50 + 20 Agenda - Renewing Business Education in Asia Conference is not a radical departure for the school but a milestone in an ongoing process of engagement with the 50 + 20 vision.

Professor Edwin Cheng is the Dean of PolyU’s Faculty of Business and Chairman of the Organising Committee for the conference.

“Hosting the conference signifies PolyU’s and Hong Kong’s support for business and management education reform, education and research that are ‘relevant and applied, holistic and integrative, responsible and sustainable, interdisciplinary and multilevel, and learning-oriented’, and also business that works towards a better world,” Cheng explains.

“PolyU is committed to working for the betterment of Hong Kong, the nation and the world, and our mission includes producing ethical leaders and meeting the changing needs of society. Nurturing serving leaders and driving sustainability is one focus of our education and research. Apart from adding service learning, as well as environmental and sustainable development elements, to our curriculum, the university has been collaborating with various institutions and different sectors of society to facilitate the pursuit of economic prosperity, environmental quality and social equity.”

Hong Kong may be seen - rightly or wrongly - as the home of unfettered free-market capitalism but Cheng sees reason for optimism when it comes to setting a new agenda for local business practice.

“Hong Kong has a number of social problems, including a widening gap between the rich and poor,” he admits. “But we also have extensive expertise, great entrepreneurs and a highly educated population. All these can be contributory factors to a better society and a healthier community.