Back to school: Secretary for Education & Manpower Professor Arthur Li is been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Science (Medicine) Degree by University College London.

Secretary for Education & Manpower Professor Arthur Li has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Science (Medicine) Degree by University College London, showing his outstanding contribution to surgery and academia throughout his career.

The university highlighted Professor Li's distinguished achievements as an internationally renowned surgeon, his strong leadership as former Vice-Chancellor of the Chinese University of Hong Kong and his contribution to education as Secretary for Education & Manpower.

His high regard for independent thinking and all-round education was reflected in his implementation of education reform in Hong Kong. He was also recognised for his defence of academic freedom.

The university said Professor Li was a strong advocate of international collaboration, as exemplified by his recent efforts in championing a strategic alliance between the UK and Hong Kong higher-education sectors.

Professor Li graduated from University College London's former Middlesex Hospital School of Medicine in 1969. He was pleased to have received this honour from his alma mater.