Latest Updates - SFU Advocates for Neurodiversity in Promoting Inclusive Education 2026-06-23

As the number of students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) continues to rise in Hong Kong, Saint Francis University (SFU) recently held a seminar titled "Neurodiversity in Action: Learning and Family Experience." The event featured Mr Chan Kam Hung, a well-known film and television artist in Hong Kong, who shared his family experiences. Additionally, Professor Chan Tak Mou Simon, Dean of Graduate Studies, and Professor Lo Tit Wing, Vice President (Research and Development), explored the learning and developmental needs of neurodiverse individuals. They called for society to shift towards understanding and acceptance, working together to create a fair and diverse educational environment.

The seminar emphasised that neurodiversity represents the natural differences in human cognition and learning styles, rather than defects that need fixing. The university has established the "Unit for Learning Achievement" (ULA) dedicated to supporting SEN students by providing learning counselling, psychological support, and campus adaptation services, and is currently implementing a five-year development plan to gradually expand these services. Furthermore, SFU promotes "Multiple Family Narrative Therapy" (MFNT), shifting from a "problem-focused" to a "strength-based" approach, assisting SEN families in breaking free from negative labels and reshaping their identity.

As a pioneer in applied sciences education in Hong Kong, SFU advocates that society should not measure success solely by academic performance or progression to higher education. Instead, it should provide multiple pathways for students to realise their potential through applied learning, professional skills, and community service.

SFU aims to unite universities, industries, and researchers to promote the practice of neurodiversity education, collaboratively building a more inclusive and diverse educational ecosystem in Hong Kong.