Welcome to the 74th edition of CUHK in Focus.
The past few weeks have been very difficult for our students, colleagues, alumni and the wider community of Hong Kong as we mourn the loss of lives and those suffering caused by the devastating fire in Wang Fuk Court, Tai Po. On behalf of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, I extend our deepest condolences to those who passed away in the incident and our heartfelt sympathies to the affected residents.
While many of us are still at a loss for words during this sorrowful time, the courage and selflessness shown by our emergency services and the many community members who have stepped forward to offer a helping hand have reminded us that compassion and solidarity shine brightest in times of adversity. It is my earnest wish that those who have suffered from this tragedy find strength and comfort in the support of the community during such hardship.
Over this period, different units of the University have promptly activated measures to provide necessary support to those affected. Recognising the critical need to ensure shelter for individuals displaced by the fire, we are grateful to the Henderson Land Group for their generosity in offering free and temporary accommodation at The Parkwood to affected University members immediately after the incident. The University has opened its Guest House and quarters to the staff and students in need while Colleges and the Postgraduate Hall have arranged for students and their families to move into campus residences as a means of shelter.
We wish for the affected staff and students to prioritise their well-being and recovery during this challenging period. Accordingly, special work and study arrangements are in place, including release from duties and flexible options for study and assessment.
It warms my heart to see the entire CUHK community coming together to offer assistance to the affected residents. From donating medical supplies and daily necessities, to delivering specialist care at public hospitals, providing mental health services and volunteering for community relief initiatives, our staff, students and alumni have been standing with our neighbours in Tai Po. The wholehearted efforts of the CUHK community embody our resilient spirit of togetherness and shared aspiration to bring hope to our city.
The CUHK Alumni Charity Foundation swiftly mobilised alumni to jointly raise funds in support of the injured and the impacted families, staying true to our belief that every act of kindness, especially when united, can build a legacy of greatness. Our overseas alumni have also responded enthusiastically to this charitable initiative. On behalf of the University, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Colleges, the Postgraduate Hall, local and overseas alumni associations, the CUHK Staff Association and Teachers’ Association, members of our alumni community, as well as the generous donors of the CU RElief Fund. Your contributions have enabled us to provide immediate financial assistance to every affected member and to arrange temporary accommodation for those in urgent need.
In the days to come, we shall remain firmly dedicated to continual community support. May our unity guide us through this period, and may the new year bring us peace and wisdom to face every challenge with unwavering resolve.
Professor Dennis Lo Yuk-ming
Vice-Chancellor and President
