New University of Hong Kong chief Zhang Xiang: ‘Campus should not be a platform for political advocacy’
Mainland China-born scientist Professor Zhang Xiang declares school’s opposition to idea of city’s independence
The new head of the University of Hong Kong has declared the school management’s opposition to Hong Kong independence.
Professor Zhang Xiang said on Wednesday the campus should not become a platform for political advocacy.
The mainland China-born scientist, who became HKU president and vice chancellor in July, took the clear stance just weeks after student leaders at different local universities insisted they had a right to talk about the idea of breaking away from China at events heralding the start of the new academic year.
“The University of Hong Kong is committed to the core principle of ‘one country, two systems’ under the Basic Law. It expects its staff and students to obey the law and to be aware of their responsibilities and the consequences of their actions,” Zhang said, reading aloud a written statement during an open dialogue with students on Wednesday, when the issue was raised.
“The university’s senior management is opposed to Hong Kong independence.”