On 30 October 2026, Hong Kong Chu Hai College held the Ng Teng Fong · Sino Group Presidential Distinguished Lecture, featuring renowned sociologist, former Vice-Chancellor of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and former Head of New Asia College, Prof. Ambrose Y.C. King. Delivering a keynote titled "The University and China's Modernisation", Prof. King drew upon decades of academic research and institutional leadership to outline the role and responsibilities of universities in shaping China's modern civilisational order, attracting enthusiastic attendance from faculty and students alike.

Prof. King has dedicated his life to the study of Chinese modernisation and modernity. His seminal 1966 work, “From Tradition to Modernity”, is widely regarded as a groundbreaking study examining Chinese modernisation through a social science lens. Joining CUHK in 1970, he served the institution for 34 years in pivotal roles—including Head of New Asia College and Vice-Chancellor—profoundly shaping its development and college system. His works, including “The Idea of the University” and “Rethinking the University: The University and China's Modern Civilisation”, remain foundational texts in higher education across the Chinese-speaking world.

Tracing the historical context of China's modernisation since 1840, Prof. King noted that China's modern university system did not evolve from traditional imperial academies (Taixue), but was introduced from the West. He highlighted Cai Yuanpei's landmark reforms at Peking University as the catalyst for the birth of modern Chinese universities, which triggered a knowledge revolution, accelerated societal rationalisation, and set China's modernisation in motion.

Prof. King stressed that the goal of China's modernisation extends beyond national wealth and power; it lies in constructing a "modern civilisational order". However, he cautioned against modern higher education's overemphasis on research at the expense of the humanities and teaching. While classical university ideals centred on moral enlightenment and societal perfection, modern academia has shifted predominantly towards empirical truth and new knowledge.

"Universities must not only 'seek truth' and cultivate scientific talent but also safeguard the pursuit of the highest good and beauty," Prof. King observed, warning that higher education risks devolving into a "factory for instant knowledge production" without these fundamental ideals.

Addressing the challenges posed by the explosion of knowledge and the rise of artificial intelligence, Prof. King urged higher education institutions to prioritise a holistic vision, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility towards society and global humanity. He encouraged students to look beyond their professional specialisations, cultivate an appreciation for human culture and national heritage, and foster independent judgement.

The lecture offered faculty and students fresh academic perspectives and profound inspiration for educators dedicated to driving social progress and cultural inheritance.

Hong Kong Chu Hai College hosts the Ng Teng Fong · Sino Group Presidential Distinguished Lecture, featuring Prof. Ambrose King as keynote speaker. 

President Jane Zhang presents a certificate of appreciation to Prof. Ambrose King in gratitude for his keynote lecture.

The lecture attracts an enthusiastic turnout of faculty and students.

The lecture attracts an enthusiastic turnout of faculty and students.