Global Alumni Forum Sparks Thought-Provoking Dialogues on the Future of Business
On 26 August, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School brought together over 300 esteemed guests at the Global Alumni Forum 2023: Reimagining Global Business for the Next 60 Years. The half-day event provided participants with valuable business insights and a memorable networking experience.
Returning for the first time as a face-to-face event after three years, this year’s Global Alumni Forum saw the attendance of over 300 passionate alumni from 21 programmes, business partners, faculty members and students. In addition, close to 100 participants joined the enlightening forum online.
The event began with a heart-warming welcome address by Prof. Alan K.L. Chan, Provost of CUHK, to the alumni attending the joyous occasion, which specially marked the 60th anniversary of both CUHK and CUHK Business School. Prof. Chan highlighted, “As CUHK continues to develop, CUHK Business School will continue to serve as a key engine of change. The way in which the Business School adapts its courses in response to the evolving external environment, while providing top-quality education, conducting impactful research and delivering the best services to our alumni, empowers the University to fulfil its responsibilities and achieve its founding vision and mission.”
Prof. Alan K.L. Chan, Provost of CUHK
Hong Kong Remains Strong and Resilience amid Challenges of Talent and Manpower Shortages
The keynote speaker, Mr. Chris Sun (IBBA 1994), JP, Secretary for Labour and Welfare of The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, shed light on how Hong Kong continues to confront and overcome the challenges posed by talent and manpower shortage. He also discussed Hong Kong’s strategy to attract talent from across the world, including the Top Talent Pass Scheme launched in late 2022. “We believe Hong Kong has a natural edge and the right ecosystem.” Mr. Sun expressed optimism about the city’s future, “We have that DNA ingrained in us as the global commerce centre. The government is willing to invest and willing to reshape our policies to help Hong Kong grow.”
Innovation, Talent, and Sustainability as Key Drivers for the Betterment of Society
The event continued with a thought-provoking panel discussion on how innovation, talent and sustainability are reshaping business across industries.
Ms. Loretta Fong (PACC 1993), President of Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants, emphasised the irreplaceable role of human in the accounting industry, even with the enhanced efficiency brought about by technological advancements, stating, “After all, AI cannot replace human judgement.” Dr. Paul Sin (MBA 2002), Director – Technology & Transformation of New World Development Company Limited, highlighted the increasing consciousness on innovation investment due to market situations and tightening regulations. Ms. Susanna Wong (IBBA 1992), a seasoned retail industry executive and the former CEO of Yata Limited, discussed the role of technology in providing deeper customer insights and reducing reliance on manpower. Mr. Frank Tsui, Managing Director and Head of ESG Investment of Value Partners Group, touched upon the advancement of innovation, sustainability practices, and the rising sophistication of ESG standards in asset management.
The panel concurred that talent played a crucial role in adapting innovation to the evolving environment, fostering sustainable business growth, and benefiting society at large.
In his closing remarks, Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School, expressed gratitude to the speakers and participants. He also commended the alumni for their valuable contributions, “Alumni are truly the most valuable asset of CUHK Business School. Your contributions to society define the University and the School’s impact.”
Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School
The event concluded on a high note with a celebratory networking luncheon, providing a platform for alumni from around the globe to connect and inspire one another.
