Since its establishment in 2000, the HKU SPACE Community College (“the College”) has left an indelible mark on Hong Kong's higher education history. It has paved the way for HKDSE graduates to pursue advanced studies and for tens of thousands of students to realise their university aspirations.

The 23^rd Graduation Ceremony of the College took place on 30 October 2024 at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium. The event was presided by Professor William K.M. Lee, Director of HKU SPACE. Professor John Mark Carroll, Department of History, The University of Hong Kong, was invited as the Guest of Honour, commemorating this memorable occasion with the graduating students.

Parting thoughts: embracing skills and knowledge

The ceremony commenced with the National Anthem. Professor Lee then began with a warm speech by acknowledging the graduates for their dedication, perseverance, and accomplishments throughout their academic journey, wishing them a bright and rewarding future. He encouraged the students: “You are starting a new phase of your life. The road ahead may be complex, and there will be challenges that you may face along the way. Remember that the skills and lessons you have learned, and they will serve you well in achieving your goals, overcoming obstacles, and realising your dreams.”

In his address, the Guest of Honour, Professor Carroll remarked, “Success is never measured only by financial or material wealth, or by professional or educational qualifications. True success comes from finding meaningful and long-lasting purpose, and from making a positive impact. This requires more than professional skill or academic knowledge. It requires understanding, empathy, diversity, and inclusivity.”

Subsequently, Professor Carroll presented the Outstanding Teacher Awards to acknowledge the recipients’ exemplary performance. Professor Lee then conferred the Associate Degree and Higher Diploma awards on the graduates. Various awards and scholarships were also bestowed upon students in recognition of their exceptional accomplishments and contributions.

Words of gratitude: sparking students' dreams

The valedictory speech was delivered by Zahid Hifsa Zaidy, an Associate of Arts graduate in English Language and Literature, representing the graduates. She reminisced about the poignant moment in March 2023 when the mask mandate was lifted, allowing students to finally see each other's beaming faces in person. Over the two years of study, enduring friendships were forged amongst fellow students, “They have given us joy when we are overwhelmed, support when we lack confidence, and motivation during our despair.” On behalf of the graduates, she expressed gratitude to their families for their unwavering love, encouragement, and sacrifices. She also extended thanks to the teachers for propelling students to academic heights beyond their expectations. “Your dedication and enthusiasm for education have inspired us to challenge ourselves and strive for excellence. You have played a significant part in showing us the possible ways and igniting our dreams.”

Following the ceremony, other students shared their experiences at the College. Cheung Chun-ming, who earned a Higher Diploma in Chinese for Professional Communication, expressed gratitude towards the dedicated teachers at the College, “They care for their students and readily answer their questions. The College also offers support services to help students adapt to academic life. I am happy to have met like-minded friends who attended classes and studied together,” he remarked.

Zhou Dikun, an Associate Degree graduate in Economics, reflected on his two years at the College, “The learning environment here is liberating; one can select preferred subjects and arrange a personal timetable. The elective courses are engrossing, and the classes are engaging,” he shared. He believed that “with diligence, one will realise that the world is big. A setback in the HKDSE examination is but a minor stumble in life.”