The Education Bureau appeals to the community not to impose pressure on the University of Hong Kong Council, nor to hinder the university's normal functioning.
The university's convocation convened an extraordinary general meeting today to discuss the motions relating to the appointment of Pro-Vice-Chancellor and the Chief Executive as the university’s chancellor.
In response to media enquiries on the issue, the bureau said the University Grants Committee's notes on procedures stipulate that institutions have autonomy in respect of staff selection.
The University of Hong Kong is a statutory body, and the relevant ordinance and subsidiary statutes state that its council will appoint a Pro-Vice-Chancellor on such terms and conditions as the council shall prescribe.
The Government does not participate in staff selection, the bureau said.
Under the University of Hong Kong Ordinance, the Chief Executive is the chancellor. The ordinance also specifies the chancellor's powers and duties, and there is no interference with academic freedom and institutional autonomy. The chancellor does not participate in staff selection.
The bureau said, in accordance with the university statutes, the Chief Executive should appoint the council chairman, adding that the present system is effective and different stakeholders should respect and comply with the law.
