Three key areas to advance talent development and support a sustainable self-financing tertiary education sector
The Federation for Self-financing Tertiary Education (FSTE) welcomes the Chief Executive’s 2026 Policy Address and Hong Kong’s first Five-Year Plan (2026–2030). It supports the Government’s commitment to strengthening Hong Kong’s position as an international hub for post-secondary education and a magnet for high-calibre talent through the integrated development of education, technology and talent. FSTE hopes that policy implementation will harness self-financing institutions’ flexibility and responsiveness while supporting their sustainable development.
Professor Reggie Kwan, Chairman of FSTE, said: “With responsive curricula, diverse learning pathways and close industry connections, self-financing institutions equip students and working adults with skills that meet changing workforce needs. Our sector is integral to Hong Kong’s education and talent development. We stand ready to work with the Government, employers and technology partners to translate policy aspirations into opportunities for learners and tangible benefits for society.”
Three Key Areas of Work
FSTE will gather members’ views over the coming months and develop concrete proposals for the authorities across three key areas:
1. Skills Development and Applied Education: To advance artificial intelligence (AI) upskilling and digital transformation, FSTE will facilitate collaboration among interested member institutions, the Government, employers and technology providers on flexible, industry-specific training, with particular attention to strengthening the employability of recent graduates. Drawing on members’ experience in continuing and professional education, FSTE will also support skills-based learning pathways and the sharing of good practice in responsible AI use in teaching and learning.
2. Participation in the Northern Metropolis University Towns: FSTE welcomes the development of university towns in the Northern Metropolis, including Hung Shui Kiu’s focus on smart manufacturing, applied post-secondary education and international talent development, and plans to incorporate arts and blue-green development elements in Ta Kwu Ling.
FSTE will facilitate dialogue among interested members, the Government and industry on institutional participation, shared facilities, workplace learning and applied research. It looks forward to inclusive and sustainable arrangements that accommodate institutions’ strengths and development needs while safeguarding academic quality and the student learning experience.
3. International Engagement and Collaboration: To promote the “Study in Hong Kong” brand, FSTE will explore joint promotion, academic exchange and professional training collaboration with partners in the Mainland, ASEAN countries and beyond, showcasing the sector’s diverse educational offerings. It will also support members in diversifying student recruitment and expanding cross-border learning and internship opportunities.
Looking Ahead
FSTE looks forward to continued dialogue with the Government on supporting self-financing institutions’ sustainable development, with due consideration to their resource and recruitment challenges. Through its work in three areas, FSTE seeks to strengthen learning pathways, expand employment opportunities and deepen the sector’s contribution to Hong Kong’s long-term education and talent development. It welcomes collaboration with the Government, industry and technology partners on initiatives that benefit students, working adults and employers.
2026.09.18