Jun 13, 2024 07:53 PM

Hong Kong Creates Task Force to Investigate University Management's Escalating Spat

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The University of Hong Kong. Photo: VCG

Hong Kong’s education bureau has established a task force to look into the “internal operational affairs” of the University of Hong Kong (HKU), which has been roiled by disputes between its president and governing council.

The task force, made up of the city’s education secretary and chairman of the University Grants Committee, will be responsible for “clarify(ing) the facts and study(ing) how to deal with the matter,” according to a Monday press release from the Hong Kong government.

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Explore the story in 30 seconds

Hong Kong’s education bureau set up a task force to investigate HKU's internal disputes involving its president and governing council.
Conflicts arose after the Council appointed new vice-presidents without consulting President Zhang Xiang, leading to open letters and various allegations.
Hong Kong's Chief Executive emphasized the need for better communication and adherence to standards for public funding by the government.

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What Happened When

December 2023：: The HKU Council had 25 members, including Zhang Xiang. Prominent barrister Priscilla Wong was chairwoman.

Late May 2024：: HKU's Council appointed a number of new interim vice-presidents, increasing the number from four to nine.

May 28, 2024：: The new appointments increased the number of HKU’s vice-presidents from four to nine, filling all vacancies while adding two new positions.

June 4, 2024：: HKU updated its Officers of the University page to reflect the changes in vice-presidents positions.

June 5, 2024：: Zhang Xiang issued a letter stating the Council’s decision had bypassed him and the university management, violating established procedures.

June 10, 2024：: The HKU Council issued an open letter responding to false statements, detailing the process of appointing vice-presidents and listing grievances against Zhang.