Hong Kong Metropolitan University: new name, new head, new directions

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After 24 years of being known as The Open University of Hong Kong (OUHK), from today (1 September) this well-established academic institution will adopt a brand new name — Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU). 

A university’s title shapes public perception, so it is important for any university to have a name that accurately reflects its aspirations and mission. Until now, the OUHK has always had the word ‘open’ in its name, reflecting its original purpose. Founded in 1989 as the Open Learning Institute of Hong Kong and taking on its Open University moniker in 1997, the self-funding university from its outset primarily delivered part-time and distance learning education for adults with no previous qualifications. Indeed, the OUHK quickly established a reputation as Hong Kong’s premium provider of distance learning opportunities. 

Over time, however, the university gradually broadened its ambitions and its student base. Full-time degree programmes were added in many academic areas, increasing numbers of school leavers enrolled in the university through the JUPAS system, and the university’s campuses in Ho Man Tin were expanded and enhanced. By 2021, the university had more full-time students than part-time ones, and had substantial offerings of master’s and PhD programmes. Increasingly, the ‘Open University’ title seemed out of sync with the actual scope and direction of today’s university.

The old name had begun to have some negative effects, too. Council Chairman Mr Michael Wong Yick-kam comments, “I have often talked to talented students whose friends dismissed their efforts because they were studying at an ‘open’ university.” 

To reflect the university’s changing directions and student demography, and to address misconceptions that were interfering with students’ career development, the OUHK began the process of formally changing its name in 2020. An exercise was held to generate suggestions for a new title and, after an extensive selection and consultation process, the selected name was unveiled in December 2020 — Hong Kong Metropolitan University. Later, an eminent local designer, Mr Alan Chan Yau-kin, was commissioned to develop an accompanying logo.