HKU and Peking University Welcome Second Cohort of Groundbreaking Dual Degree Programme in Social Sciences, Fostering Global Leaders in Politics, Philosophy and Economics
The Faculty of Social Sciences at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) successfully hosted a welcoming event on 19 August 2026 (Wednesday) for the second cohort of the pioneering HKU-PKU Dual Degree Programme in Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE). Jointly offered by the HKU Faculty of Social Sciences and Yuanpei College of Peking University (PKU), the event celebrated the continuation of this strategic academic partnership and welcomed the incoming students to their unique educational journey.
This Dual Degree programme aims to nurture critical thinkers and future leaders equipped to navigate the complexities of a globalised world. It offers exceptional students an unparalleled opportunity to integrate their studies across two of Asia’s top universities. Students admitted to the programme will spend their first two years at PKU, followed by two years at HKU. Furthermore, the programme offers an optional fifth year at PKU for students interested in pursuing MPhil or PhD studies in Mainland China, providing a comprehensive pathway for advanced academic research.
The welcoming event commenced with an inspiring address by Professor Jiangnan Zhu, Programme Director and faculty member of the HKU Faculty of Social Sciences. Praising the students for overcoming a highly rigorous and selective admission process across both universities, Professor Zhu highlighted their courage, commitment, and talent. “Our aim is to nurture critical thinkers and change-makers equipped with both Eastern and Western perspectives and interdisciplinary insights, ready to navigate the complexities of a globalised world,” Professor Zhu remarked, emphasising the programme’s role as an incubator for future leaders.
Following the introduction, incoming students shared their diverse aspirations for the upcoming academic journey. Ryan Shen highlighted the programme’s interdisciplinary appeal: “My decision to pursue PPE stems from the realization that any single-dimension approach to problem-solving has its limitations – economic models alone fail to account for ‘immeasurable’ values, and philosophical theories alone can lack practical application. PPE offers me the ability to think interdisciplinarily, allowing me to tackle complicated problems with quantitative skills and a qualitative mindset.”
Echoing this enthusiasm for diverse perspectives, Xing Shi Wen emphasized the unique cultural and academic bridge the dual degree provides: “Having attended international schools my whole life, I’ve predominantly studied the Western point of view. Now, I want to learn all about China and reconnect with my roots. I chose the HKU-PKU programme because it is the only one in the world that fits all my needs. I am looking forward to learning alongside some of the brightest minds, as being surrounded by such exceptional peers will surely inspire me to grow.”
Daniel Liang Shuran expressed his excitement about the dual-city experience: “Having the chance to embark on my academic journey at two world-renowned universities in Beijing and Hong Kong is an exceptional experience. I look forward to using the knowledge I gain to contribute to the betterment of Hong Kong, China, and the world.”
This initiative not only highlights the immense relevance of interdisciplinary training in politics, philosophy, and economics but also reaffirms HKU’s commitment to academic leadership and nurturing highly adaptable, globally-minded talents capable of shaping the future.
