Yew Chung College of Early Childhood Education (YCCECE) held its annual 2025 BoG & Council Leadership Retreat on 10 February 2025. The event began with an inspiring opening speech by Dr. Betty Chan, Chairlady of the Board of Governors (BoG). Dr. Chan welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenges and opportunities in higher education. Her remarks set the tone for a day filled with meaningful dialogue and the exchange of ideas. 

Professor Anthony Cheung Bing Leung, GBS, JP, delivered a comprehensive keynote address on Higher Education Developments in Hong Kong – Challenges and Opportunities. He highlighted key issues such as the historic developments of Hong Kong’s higher education system, Demographic changes, including an ageing population and declining birth rates, alongside economic stagnation and the rise of AI, demand a paradigm shift in the purpose and delivery of education. Challenges such as maintaining education quality, updating curricula to meet changing labour market needs, securing financial resources, and balancing access with equity and quality. Hong Kong must also address its identity as an education hub, attracting more diverse international students and distinguishing itself globally while contributing to scholarship, innovation, and intellectual diversity. Ultimately, the city’s higher education institutions must redefine their global impact, producing leaders and scholars capable of driving transformative change. 

Following this, an engaging fireside chat took place, featuring Professor Anthony Cheung Bing Leung alongside two esteemed academics, Professor Mary Kalantzis and Professor Fazal Rizvi. Chaired by Prof. Kerry Lee, the President of YCCECE, the discussion explored the complexities of higher education in Hong Kong and its global context. The discussion highlighted that AI poses a significant threat to higher education by shifting knowledge production away from universities, while the sector faces challenges in adapting its traditional business model to the opportunities of digital and remote learning. There is a need for curriculum and pedagogy to integrate cybersocial practices, balancing human interaction with digital tools. Concerns were raised about the impact of AI on early childhood education (ECE), emphasizing the importance of parents and educators co-designing tools and maintaining the critical role of teachers despite technological advancements. Strategies to expand and fund ECE were discussed, including government initiatives for affordable childcare, better pay for ECE workers, and building new ECE centres.  

In the afternoon, Mr. Peter Ho, General Secretary and CEO of the YMCA of Hong Kong, gave an inspiring presentation on A Journey of Servant Leadership. Drawing on his personal experiences, Mr. Ho shared valuable insights into the principles of being a Servant Leader that effective leadership centres on serving others. He emphasized the importance of humility, empathy, and trust, and shared practical lessons from his leadership journey at the YMCA.  

Overall, the event was a resounding success, featuring insightful discussions, inspiring presentations, and collaborative planning. It offered valuable perspectives on higher education, leadership, fostering a shared vision for institutional growth and excellence.