FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[Hong Kong, 19 February 2024] Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong (LPCUWC) is delighted to announce the launch of the "Talent for Hong Kong Scholarship Scheme” for International Students to LPCUWC, a collaboration between LPCUWC, Tencent Charity Foundation (“Tencent Foundation”), and three prestigious institutions, namely The University of Hong Kong (HKU), The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), starting school year 2023/24.
The initiative, also known as the ‘2+4+X Scholarship Scheme’, seeks to nurture international talent and foster diversity in Hong Kong. This transformative program aims to enhance Hong Kong's international talent pipeline by offering an all-inclusive scholarship package. The scholarship encompasses a two-year study period at LPCUWC, followed by a four-year undergraduate program at one of the three universities, and culminates in a cooperative (co-op) opportunity with a corporate partner. Graduates who stay on and work in Hong Kong will be eligible to acquire permanent residency under the 7 years of continuous stay requirement, benefiting Hong Kong’s human resources and strategic objectives. This unique partnership benefits Hong Kong high schools and universities’ global horizons with the international diverse student body at LPCUWC and allows for the retention and development of exceptional global young talents within Hong Kong, also.
“This exciting initiative not only provides deserving students with unparalleled educational opportunities but also equips them with the necessary skills and experiences to make a positive impact on the local and global stages. By diversifying the talent pipeline in Hong Kong, we aim to foster a vibrant and diverse community that embraces the strengths and perspectives of individuals from various backgrounds.” - Mr. Anthony Tong, Chairman LPCUWC
Tencent Foundation, a long-time partner of LPCUWC, is one of the major contributors towards the initiative. Tencent Foundation is injecting a generous pledge of HK$6.4 million to support a total of 8 international students from developing economies and humble backgrounds, from 2024 – 2027, building on the Foundation’s earlier efforts in supporting local students to study at LPCUWC through a contribution of HK$15 million, being distributed over a 10-year period from 2017 to 2026. Through their exceptional philanthropy, a total of 28 students will be given the opportunity to receive financial assistance to pursue their education at LPCUWC. The partnership with Tencent Foundation reinforces LPCUWC’s mission to cultivate future leaders, both local and international, who are globally minded, socially conscious, and equipped to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.
“Tencent values the cultivation of youth and talent. By integrating our resources, we are committed to empowering young people to realise their full potential, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and shape a brighter and more prosperous future for all. We are glad to partner with LPCUWC on both local and international talent cultivation, with a goal to support talent development in Hong Kong.”- Mr. James LI Tsz Shu, Vice President of Public Affairs, Tencent and Chief Executive of Tencent Foundation.
Likewise, LPCUWC is thrilled by the collaboration with some of the most prestigious institutions in Asia for this Scheme. The esteemed University of Hong Kong (HKU) has generously pledged to offer full scholarships to five LPCUWC students. The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has committed to providing full scholarships to an additional five students. Moreover, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has offered full scholarships to two exceptional LPCUWC students. We believe this partnership presents an invaluable opportunity for talented international students to further their education in the vibrant city of Hong Kong.
“HKU has a long and strong partnership with United World Colleges, particularly the Li Po Chun United World College in Hong Kong. Over the years, we have attracted and admitted many talented students from United World Colleges. Quite a few of the graduates are now faculty members at HKU, including our Associate Vice President, Prof. Anderson Shum. Just this year, we have admitted a total of 7 UWC students with scholarships (1 from LPCUWC).” - Professor Chi Kin (Bennett) Yim, Director of Undergraduate Admissions and International Student Exchange
As part of this momentous collaboration, a group of LPCUWC students embarked on an eye-opening visit to the HKU, CUHK and HKUST campuses. The visits served as an immersive experience, allowing students to explore the vibrant atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities that await them as future universities scholars.
“HKUST values diverse talents and recruiting outstanding international students is a focus for the University. We are pleased to work with LPCUWC to launch this scholarship program to retain and nurture overseas talent to continue their higher education in Hong Kong and contribute to its vibrant development.” - Professor Emily Nason, Director of Undergraduate Recruitment & Admissions (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)
During the tours, students had the privilege of engaging with representatives from various departments. These sessions provided an invaluable platform for students to gain firsthand insights into the diverse range of academic programs offered at the universities. From lively discussions on arts and humanities to enlightening exchanges on science and technology, students were inspired by the vast opportunities that lay ahead.
The partnership between Tencent Foundation, HKU, CUHK, HKUST and LPCUWC reinforces the commitment to fostering global citizenship and providing exceptional educational experiences. By offering these scholarships we are opening doors for international students to access Asia.
“Choosing Hong Kong as the study abroad destination promises unlimited possibilities and opportunities. Among all higher education institutions in Hong Kong, CUHK is arguably the most forward-looking university that combines and brings out the best of Chinese and western cultures. The Diversity Scholarship is a triple win for CUHK, LPCUWC, and talented youths from all corners of the world.” - Professor Andy Wong, Director of Admissions and Financial Aid (CUHK)
Through this collaboration, LPCUWC and its esteemed partners seek to foster an inclusive and diverse academic community, attracting and supporting exceptional students from around the world. By providing scholarships, the aim is to empower students with the necessary resources and support to enhance their educational journey and make a positive impact in their respective fields of study.
As we embark on this new chapter, we remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence in education and creating opportunities for talented individuals to thrive. With the support of our corporate and foundation donors, we are confident that the "Talent for Hong Kong Scholarship" initiative will contribute significantly to the growth and development of Hong Kong as a global hub for talent.
For further media enquiries, please contact:
Mr Michael Tsang
Advancement Director
Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong
Tel: 852 2812 2461
Fax: 852 2643 4088
Email: michael@lpcuwc.edu.hk
Website: www.lpcuwc.edu.hk
LPCUWC is one of the 18 UWC Schools and Colleges that share the UWC mission and philosophy of the UWC movement to make education a force to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future, whilst providing an International Baccalaureate (IB) education.
The College opened to its first students in September 1992, and was formally opened by HRH the Prince of Wales on 6 November 1992. The birth of the College, however, can be traced back to 1978 when Dr Lee Quo-Wei GBM JP (Sir Q W Lee), then Chairman of the Hong Kong Selection Committee, was recruiting Hong Kong students to study in the overseas Colleges of UWC. Impressed by the high calibre of UWC graduates, Sir Q W Lee initiated the idea of establishing a UWC College in Hong Kong together with Mr Li Shiu Tsang MBE JP, whose family had set up the Li Po Chun Charitable Trust. The concept was strongly supported by Sir David Wilson, then Governor of Hong Kong, and Mr David Sutcliffe, then Principal of Atlantic College in Wales.
Sharing a firm commitment to diversity, LPCUWC is a residential college that goes beyond being “international.” We are a vibrant community interwoven by more than 250 students aged 16-19 from over 80 different nationalities, cultures, and various socio-economic backgrounds brought here on scholarships.
Being a fully residential college means that students learn from and with each other during afterschool Quan Cai (全才) activities, and other collaborative and shared living experiences. Teachers also live on campus. Everyone plays a significant role in the college community, creating and supporting each other’s UWC experience.
Students are exposed to a strong presence of many traditions and cultures. Everyone gets a chance to immerse themselves in the cultures of other regions of the world and showcase their own at cultural evenings. Students from abroad also have the opportunity to explore Chinese culture in depth, with Mandarin as a subject and Dragon and Lion Dance as Quan Cai activities. Students are given the chance to develop a deeper understanding of China and Asia through China Week and Project Week service trips to Mainland China, East, and South-east Asia.
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