Saint Francis University Garnering Community Support to Nurture Young Talent

08 May 2026
Saint Francis University (SFU) today held the "Saint Francis University Community Inauguration Ceremony cum Thanksgiving Reception" at the Conrad Hong Kong. The event witnessed the establishment of the SFU Community, which brings together different sectors of society to advance the University's development and nurture more professional talent. The ceremony was officiated by His Eminence Cardinal Stephen Chow Sau Yan, S.J., Chairperson of the SFU Board of Governors and Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong, with Mr Chris Sun, Secretary for Labour and Welfare, as Guest of Honour. 
Addressing the audience, Mr Chris Sun said, "As a University of Applied Sciences, SFU plays an important role in nurturing diversified professional talent and facilitating the upward mobility of youth. To meet Hong Kong's future development needs, what is needed is more than mere knowledge. We also need new blood with a strong sense of responsibility, capability, and commitment to serving the community. This will help strengthen Hong Kong's talent pool, in alignment with the Government's policy direction in promoting primary healthcare and social welfare services." 

As the University marks the second anniversary of its retitling this year, it celebrates another milestone with the establishment of the SFU Community. Professor Stephen Cheung said, "Guided by our motto of 'Strive for Self-Excellence', the University will continue to consolidate its unique role as a University of Applied Sciences, deepen collaboration with industry, and advance teaching, research, and knowledge transfer, in support of our Nation's 15th Five-Year Plan and Hong Kong's development. We will spare no effort in nurturing professional talent across various fields." 

At the ceremony, SFU also showcased its achievements over the past two years since its retitling. In talent development, SFU has focused on nurturing professionals in fields such as health sciences, social sciences, humanities & languages, technology, and business management. As Hong Kong's largest training institution for nurses and social workers, SFU actively supports the development of Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.

As far as research is concerned, SFU has continued to strengthen its teaching and research capabilities. During the 2024/25 year, 12 research projects received funding from the Research Grants Council (RGC) and other bodies, with a total funding of around HK$80 million. These projects cover research areas including medical and healthcare, social services, and the application of new technologies. 
Meanwhile, a campus expansion project is currently under planning to support SFU's long-term growth and increasing student enrolments. The University remains steadfast in offering diversified, flexible programmes that create multiple academic pathways and broaden career prospects for young people. 
Back