The Chinese University held its 74th Congregation for the Conferment of Degrees on 21 November. Dr. Vincent H.C. Cheng, Chairman of the University Council, presided over the congregation and conferred 3,284 bachelor's degrees and 5,782 master's degrees. In his speech, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Joseph J.Y. Sung encouraged graduates to develop a good understanding of the time they live in, and to strive to become future leaders.

What Sort of an Age Do We Live in?

Professor Sung quoted Dr. Ch'ien Mu's words from 'Know Your Time, Lead Your Time', and pinpointed that humankind should be guided by the ideal of the age. People who embrace this ideal will commit themselves to their study and work, and prepare to assume leadership.

But the present age, observed Professor Sung, is one in which:

'Individualism is in the ascendant, a time when individual interest is often placed above that of the community. We must understand that wisdom often resides in collective thinking, and that we should not focus solely on personal interest. I sincerely hope that the college life at the Chinese University has developed in you an inclination to corporate endeavours, a conciliative mindset, and a propensity to listen to others' views.

'This is an age that has witnessed information explosions, and one in which it is hard to tell right from wrong. The general education programmes of CUHK are what we have created to prepare you for a perpetual process of careful examination and judicious discernment.

'This is an age in which profit is often placed in front of ethics. It is very much to be hoped that the seeds of humanistic integrity have taken root in the hearts of our graduating students. Our pursuit is certainly for matters that are more long-lasting than profit and reputation.'

Parting Words

It was Professor Sung's wish that that all graduates could share the ideal of the University's founders, and strive to realize it, 'I sincerely hope that you will approach the world with humility, and be thought and trend leaders without drifting into vulgarism, or blindly following fashion.'

After the ceremony, bachelor's and master's graduates enjoyed the memorable day with friends and family members under the yellow canopy and the blue sky.

Please click here for the full speech.