In a recent announcement, Chief Executive John Lee of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region expressed that Hong Kong is eager to accept students who have faced discrimination due to US government policies. During a question and answer session at the Legislative Council, he highlighted that the city and its universities will provide crucial support to these students, according to reports from local media.
The US government has halted new student visa appointments at embassies and consulates worldwide, amid preparations for more extensive social media vetting for applicants. This step represents a significant setback for international students aiming to study in the US, coinciding with the revocation of Harvard University's certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, preventing the institution from admitting new international students. Further complicating the situation, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the US will begin to revoke visas for certain Chinese students.
Highlighting the advantages of Hong Kong's educational system, Lee pointed out that the HKSAR government is prepared to showcase its strengths in education and support students disenfranchised by unfair practices in the US. To assist these individuals in continuing their education, the government is collaborating with the eight universities funded by the University Grants Committee. Lee also mentioned ongoing communication with the Harvard Club of Hong Kong to extend support to affected students.
In response to the situation, the admission cap for non-local students at universities funded by the University Grants Committee has been increased from 20% to 40%, with a willingness to consider further adjustments if needed. Lee hopes to convey a message that Hong Kong’s universities are ready and welcoming to students eager to further their academic journeys in the region.
In light of the US ban on new international students at Harvard, the HKSAR Education Bureau has urged local universities to implement measures to facilitate the admission of eligible students, ensuring their rights and interests are upheld. They have reached out to the Harvard Club of Hong Kong to provide support for students who had been accepted into Harvard programs. Several universities in Hong Kong have also announced their willingness to accept Harvard students impacted by the recent policy changes, with institutions like the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and the University of Hong Kong leading the initiative to ensure a smooth transition for those looking to transfer.
0 Comments