Key messages on HKU SPACE and PLK in renewing partnership in HPSHCC

Background

HPSHCC (the College) is a joint venture between a well-established higher education institute (HKU SPACE) and a large chartiable organization providing multifaceted services (PLK).  Currently, the College mainly provides AD/HD programmes under HKU awards. The College is operated under the same quality assurance and programme development system as the HKU SPACE Community College. Since its establishment in 2005, the College, with its main campus in Causeway Bay, has grown substantially with around 3,000 students at present.

The HKU SPACE Community College has its main campus in Kowloon Bay and supported by other campuses in Island East, Island South and Kowloon West and has a student population of over 8,700.

Renewing partnership

In light of the reform of Cap.320, PLK and HKU SPACE have reviewed the current operation of the College. As the end of the review, both parties reached consensus that the JV partners should continue and strengthen their partnership beyond the existing term, which will bring maximum benefit to all students of the college. To this end, HKU SPACE will undertake a greater management role in the operation of HPSHCC. Given the rich academic and continuing learning background of HKU SPACE, it will enhance the learning support available to students with a wide range of programmes offered.  The two Colleges jointly, will be the largest service provider in local higher education sector, achieving a better synergy under the new operation model.

PLK will continue offering professional advice in programmes related to PLK’s mission as well as support in career planning and internship programmes for students.

In anticipation of the reformed Cap. 320, the College will migrate under the new Ordinance.  New degree programmes including in areas relevant to PLK will also be launched later.

What will be the changes under the new arrangement

There will be streamlining of students’ experience between the 2 FT Colleges, making it easier for students to enrol in both Colleges in the future. 

Teaching and learning can also be enhanced as teachers would be able to take part in training programmes offered by HKU SPACE and also Maisy Ho Centre for Teaching and Learning.

With the Council’s approval, the Director of HKU SPACE will also assume the role of HPSHCC Principal.  Other than this, no change will be made to the present contract term of staff. Meanwhile, Prof Hon Chan has decided to step down from his position to tie in with the future development of the College.  We thank Prof Chan for his valuable contributions to the College and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.   

What would be the impact to students

Student activities would be planned on a holistic basis and there will be opportunities for students from both FT Colleges to cross fertilize. More specific measures will be developed for 2024/25 academic year.  (For specific measures, this will be explored with CC soon after the implementation of greater management role).

What would be the impact to staff

Existing staff would be encouraged to take an active role in academic planning and development of new programmes and to welcome a vibrant student community under this “integration” as part of the HKUSPACE learning experience. Working groups will be established involving both HKU SPACE and HPSHCC staff. We are optimistic that as both Colleges work more closely together, there would be more enhancement opportunities.

What is the effective date

The greater management role is effective on 22 March 2024 as it is approved by the HKU SPACE and PLK Board.