​Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at the Hong Kong Academy of Politics and Public Policy Senior Executive Diploma 2023-24 Graduation Ceremony today (September 7):
Ronny (Convener of the Path of Democracy, Mr Ronny Tong), Prof Ho (Head Principal, Hong Kong Academy of Politics and Public Policy, Professor Ho Lok-sang), Dr Gittings (Head of College of Humanities and Law, HKU School of Professional and Continuing Education, Dr Danny Gittings), ladies and gentlemen,
Good afternoon. It is a great pleasure to be here, with you, today, on this joyous occasion. Let me begin by extending my sincere congratulations to graduates receiving their Senior Executive Diploma in Political Leadership today.
We are here to pay tribute to the 30 graduates, to celebrate not only your hard work and dedication, but also the commitment you have made to becoming the leaders of our community.
This intensive, 10-month distinguished programme, introduced in 2017, is created to cultivate professionals dedicated to politics, public policy and society at large. The programme has graduated more than 170 participants to date. With an average age of 39, the graduates are committed to serving the community, economy and Government of Hong Kong, today and long into the future.
Thanks to the programme, the graduates have acquired the systematic training, and the confidence, to take their place among Hong Kong's new generation of political leaders and professionals.
The world is facing challenges that require innovative solutions and strong, ethical leadership. The programme has equipped the graduates with the knowledge, skills, and insights necessary to navigate these complexities, and plays a part in nurturing the future political leaders of Hong Kong.
It helps, greatly, that the programme faculty includes such high-profile Hong Kong innovators and achievers as Professor Anthony Cheung, former Secretary for Transport and Housing, Jasper Tsang, former President of the Legislative Council, Dr Lam Ching-choi, a member of the Executive Council, and many others.
It helps, too, that the supporters of the programme, the Path of Democracy and HKU Space, are so well-versed in political theory and practice, and in Hong Kong's strengths and needs, as well as its prospects and long-term promise.
The Path of Democracy, which recently celebrated its 9th anniversary, brings to the programme its renowned research skills, constructive advocacy and unwavering commitment to Hong Kong's unique "one country, two systems" principle, the cornerstone of Hong Kong's success.
To take full advantage of the opportunities given to Hong Kong under the "one country, two systems" principle, we need a continuing flow of talented professionals and political leaders who understand the essential value of our society.
Our country continues to create far-reaching economic opportunities for Hong Kong, and we have to grasp the opportunity by better integrating into the overall national development, including the Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road initiatives.
In this regard, I am pleased to note that students of the programme have visited Beijing in the past two years, and met with Director Xia Baolong of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office of the State Council, as well as government officials, academics and community leaders, to gain first-hand insights into national policies.
To all graduates, you are now tasked with advocating policy and inspiring others, contributing to the development of Hong Kong.
As you step into this new chapter, I encourage you to remain lifelong learners. The landscape of politics and public policy is ever-changing, and the most effective leaders are those who adapt and grow with it. Stay curious, stay informed, and continue to seek out opportunities for personal and professional development.
Let us now take a moment to recognise the hard work and dedication of the professors, instructors and organisers who helped make the programme possible. Their guidance and support have been instrumental in shaping not just your education, but also your character.
Enjoy this special day, ladies and gentlemen. Because tomorrow, we are counting on you to tackle the challenging business of building a flourishing Hong Kong.
Thank you very much.
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