The business schools of the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) said Tuesday they will explore the idea of joining forces to establish a world-class business education brand.

The two business schools will study the feasibility of establishing a Hong Kong business school that would leverage on their competitive advantages, build greater synergy, advance teaching and learning, enhance innovative research, and further promote the development of global business leaders.

Vice Chancellor of HKU Lap-Chee Tsui said such a business school will advance the region's academic and research excellence and extend the reputation of Hong Kong as a top-notch business education provider, and he fully anticipates a "win-win-win" situation for students, faculty and society.

"As Asia's world city, Hong Kong has unrivaled potential to develop into an international hub for quality business education, "said Paul Chu, president of HKUST.

He believed that such a partnership will facilitate the recruitment of more top students and faculty from around the world, and help fulfill the vision of Hong Kong as a regional and global center for excellence in learning and research .

The two universities will establish a joint working group to study the feasibility of the proposed deep collaboration.
 
(Xinhua News Agency May 26, 2004)