HKBU orientation day promotes whole-person education

Until he saw it on a model map, Chung Tsz-yuen did not know that the English name of the city under fire from American warplanes was 'Kabul'. Tsz-yuen, 16, from Tsuen Wan Public Ho Chuen Yiu Memorial College, was admiring a beautiful model map made by the Geography Department of the Baptist University (HKBU). He was among 10,000 would-be tertiary students visiting the the university's orientation day, with its theme 'Strive for Excellence' promoting 'whole-person education' to sixth and seventh formers.

HKBU administrative officer Karen Yum said: 'To enhance our students' competitiveness, we should emphasise multiple intelligence, especially in nurturing their virtues, talents, sports abilities, communication skills and appreciation of the arts.' Mrs Yum believes students should take part in more cultural and recreational activities such as dancing, ball games and music lessons.

Along with the usual briefings and academic exhibits, a photographic contest was organised for the teenagers to record their impressions of the campus. A series of performances, including hip-hop and jazz dance, music pieces and a rowing display, highlighted the all-round skills of HKBU students.

Christie Lee, from St Antonius Girls' College, who wants to study music, said she was most impressed by a handbells performance.

'It is the only handbells group in a Hong Kong university and I had never heard such music before,' the 17-year-old added.

Sally Yeung is a Young Post student reporter