Faculty News

The Faculty is proud to announce that two outstanding graduates from the Faculty of Social Sciences (FOSS) at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), Carina Yu Chin Hang (BSocSc (Government and Laws) & LLB) and Kady Wong Ka Hing (BSocSc), have been honoured as recipients of the “Ten Outstanding Tertiary Students of Hong Kong 2026” award. Presented by the Hong Kong Youth and Tertiary Students Association, this prestigious award recognises students who exemplify academic excellence, civic responsibility, and a commitment to societal progress. Their achievements are a testament to the holistic and transformative education provided by HKU and FOSS, which empowers students to become future leaders dedicated to making a positive impact in Hong Kong and beyond.

The following are testimonials from Carina and Kady, reflecting on their experiences at HKU and the significance of receiving the award.

Carina Yu
Bachelor of Social Sciences (Government and Laws) and Bachelor of Laws

Looking back on my time at HKU Social Sciences, the phrase that best captures my experience is “turning purpose into action.” The Faculty provided endless opportunities beyond classrooms and inspired me to serve with passion. Taking classes on public affairs and social innovation certainly encouraged me to organise fundraising initiatives for local causes and mobilise my peers to participate in volunteer service.

One of the most valuable aspects of my education was the Faculty’s Social Innovation and Global Citizenship (SIGC) programme, which had a profound impact on me. During my Year 2 summer, I went on a social innovation internship with an NGO. I ventured into local communities and lived in villages across Gansu, Hebei, and Shaanxi in Mainland China, where I interviewed farmers for an oral history project. I gained valuable insights into community development and rural revitalisation. Working alongside local communities showed me that meaningful change begins with listening, empathy, and partnership. Returning to HKU, I presented my research and SIGC experience with fellow students. This experience made me more determine to a journey of creating social impact.

The Faculty was also deeply supportive, going the extra mile to organise a mentorship programme and thoughtfully match students with industry leaders. I was fortunate to be paired with Ms May Lau, an experienced philanthropist, from whom I benefited immensely through her generous sharing of advice. Serving as a student ambassador also allowed me to connect with fellow students and showcase opportunities within the Faculty.

Together, these experiences taught me that learning carries with it a responsibility to contribute meaningfully to society. Receiving the Top Ten Outstanding Tertiary Students of Hong Kong 2026 award reflects the opportunities and values that HKU Social Sciences provided throughout my journey. As I currently serve as a Programme Associate at the United Nations ESCAP and prepare to return to Hong Kong, I continue to draw on the lessons that the Faculty has granted me. I remain deeply grateful for the transformative journey it has enabled and for inspiring me to turn purpose into action.

Kady Wong
Bachelor of Social Sciences

Receiving the Ten Outstanding Tertiary Students of Hong Kong 2026 award is a great honour, but more than anything, it reminds me of the responsibility that comes with the recognition.

Looking back on my time at HKU, I realise that some of the most meaningful lessons happened beyond the classroom. Studying Social Policy and Social Development alongside Geography allowed me to understand social issues from different perspectives, while HKU gave me the freedom to turn what I learned into action. Through community engagement, policy research, volunteering, internships, field studies and exchange, I gradually learned to look beyond my own experiences and understand the needs and stories of different communities.

University life also pushed me far beyond my comfort zone. From representing HKU in sports and taking part in hall activities, to hosting events, serving as a student ambassador and joining policy discussions, every opportunity helped me become more confident, resilient and willing to take initiative. My exchange in the Netherlands and experiences overseas further showed me how much we can learn when we step outside familiar surroundings and listen to people with different backgrounds and perspectives.

I am especially grateful to the people I met along the way, professors, mentors, family and friends who encouraged me, challenged me and believed in me. Their support reminded me that personal growth is never a journey taken alone.

To me, this award is not a finish line. It is an encouragement to continue engaging with young people, serving Hong Kong and creating opportunities for others to grow. As I move beyond university, I hope to use what I have learned to tell authentic and diverse Hong Kong stories connect different communities, and pass on the spirit of service to the next generation.

HKU gave me more than a degree. It gave me the courage to explore, the perspective to understand, and the responsibility to contribute.