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Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) recently celebrated its 37th Congregation, awarding qualifications to 4,800 graduates. Along with this momentous occasion, the University conferred honorary doctorates upon Professor Sylvia Fung Yuk-kuen, Dr Ina Ho Chan Un-chan, Mr Benedict Sin Nga-yan and Professor Xu Bing, in recognition of their remarkable achievements and significant contributions to society. 

As the only self-financed university in Hong Kong with self-accrediting status, HKMU leverages its unique position to swiftly adapt to market trends and the educational needs of various industries. Founded by the government in 1989, the University has evolved into a vibrant and comprehensive institution, offering a wide range of academic programmes primarily in full-time and face-to-face modes. It will introduce two new bachelor’s programmes in Diagnostic Radiography and Robotics and Automation Engineering for the 2026/27 academic year. 

Fostering academic synergy as a University of Applied Sciences

Designated as Hong Kong’s first university of applied sciences (UAS) in 2024, HKMU is committed to enhancing collaboration with like-minded institutions to leverage synergies and advance vocational and professional education and training across the Greater Bay Area. Meanwhile, the University is actively forging partnerships with overseas counterparts to expand its global network.

Debut in the QS World University Rankings

HKMU made its debut in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings 2026, securing a position in the 781–790 range. This notable achievement marks HKMU as the first self-financing university and the first UAS in Hong Kong to be recognised in these prestigious global rankings.

The QS World University Rankings evaluate institutions using various indicators, including academic reputation, research impact, and graduate employability. HKMU’s inclusion in the rankings underscores its commitment to upholding international standards of excellence in teaching, research and faculty development.

Reaching new heights in the QS Asia University Rankings

In addition to its global debut, HKMU made remarkable progress in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026, advancing by over 140 places to rank among Asia’s top 400 universities at 393rd place. 

Excelling in research standards to secure funding 

The University has recorded growth in both research funding and the number of patents filed and granted, reflecting its commitment to innovation and knowledge transfer. Notably, it achieved its first intellectual property (IP) licensing agreement for an innovative non-invasive prostate cancer screening technology, paving the way for its commercialisation to benefit patients. 

Four distinguished persons receive Honorary Doctorates

Professor Sylvia Fung Yuk-kuen, BBS (Doctor of Social Sciences, honoris causa)

Professor Fung is a pioneering figure in nursing with over 50 years of experience. She has made extensive contributions to the professional advancement of local nurses and midwives, notably serving Chief Nurse of the Hospital Authority and overseeing 20,000 nurses.  

During the 2003 SARS epidemic, Professor Fung was appointed Acting Hospital Chief Executive of Wong Tai Sin Hospital, Hong Kong’s first SARS convalescent hospital. Her leadership earned her the Florence Nightingale Medal from the International Committee of the Red Cross.  

In 2013, Professor Fung received the Bronze Bauhinia Star from the HKSAR Government for her lifelong dedication to healthcare. She currently serves as an Honorary Professor in HKMU’s School of Nursing and Health Sciences, and as President of the Hong Kong Academy of Nursing and Midwifery.

Dr Ina Ho Chan Un-chan, BBS (Doctor of Social Sciences, honoris causa)

Dr Chan is a successful businesswoman who has made significant contributions to education, social welfare, medical services and the arts in Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland. 

She joined the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals as a Director in 2006 and served as Chairman in 2013. She has been Vice-Chairman of “Mother’s Work”, a non-profit organisation in Macao, since 2006, and was Honorary Vice-President of The Hong Kong Anti-Cancer Society from 2007 to 2019. She was also a member of the 10th and 11th Guangdong Provincial Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference from 2010 to 2014.  

Dr Chan, a passionate advocate for Cantonese opera, donated to HKMU in 2023 to establish the Ina Ho Cantonese Opera Research Centre, which promotes education and research in this traditional art form. In recognition of her contributions, she was appointed Honorary President of the HKMU Foundation.

Mr Benedict Sin Nga-yan (Doctor of Business Administration, honoris causa)

Mr Sin is a distinguished veteran in the fine jewellery industry. He serves as the Director and General Manager of Myer Jewelry Manufacturer Limited, as well as President and Director of the Hong Kong Jewellery and Jade Manufacturers Association. Since beginning his career in 1987, Mr Sin has championed local craftsmanship, notably reopening his factory in Hong Kong to preserve traditional skills.  

His dedication extends to public service. He is an Honorary Advisor for the Hong Kong Gold and Silver Ornament Workers and Merchants General Union and has been a Fei Cui Standard Industry Advisor for the Gemmological Association of Hong Kong since 2022. As President Honoris Causa of the Hong Kong Young Industrialists Council, he actively supports youth empowerment.  

As a governor of the Sin Wai Kin Foundation, Mr Sin continues his family’s legacy of philanthropic support for education and the humanities. He also shares his expertise as an advisor to HKMU’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Gemmology and Jewellery Studies programme.

Professor Xu Bing (Doctor of Letters, honoris causa)

Professor Xu is an internationally acclaimed artist and educator, renowned for his innovative works that blend traditional Chinese culture with contemporary elements. He graduated from the Central Academy of Fine Arts in 1981 and served as its Vice President from 2007 to 2014.  

Professor Xu introduced Square Word Calligraphy in 1993, transforming English words into forms resembling Chinese characters. His works have been exhibited in leading museums institutions worldwide, including the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, the Guggenheim Museum and the Museum of Modern Art. 

Professor Xu was appointed Hong Kong’s Ambassador for Cultural Promotion in 2024, nurturing young artistic talent.