Speech at Celebration Reception of the Kellogg-HKUST EMBA Programme

11 December 2007 (Tuesday)

Celebration Reception

of the Kellogg-HKUST EMBA Programme

Speech by Mr Michael M Y Suen, GBS, JP

Secretary for Education

Chief Executive, Dr [John] Chan, Professor [Paul] Chu , Professor [Don] Jacobs, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good evening.  I am most delighted to join you all here tonight to congratulate the Kellogg School of Management of the Northwestern University and the Business School of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology for being number one in the latest Financial Times EMBA global rankings.  This is a timely recognition as the programme is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.  It is also a fitting tribute to the efforts and achievements of its teaching staff and students.

The EMBA is a very competitive field.  Top executives look around the world for the best programme.  Institutions are challenged not only to provide the best programme in terms of academia, but also to adapt to the dynamics of the ever changing markets in this globalized environment.  Located right at the heart of the Asia Pacific region, with our proximity to the Mainland, and our understanding of the Chinese culture, Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to offer business executives an opportunity to allow them to take full advantage of this huge and fast growing market.

This is evident when we see that over 50% of the students in the current class of the Kellogg-Hong Kong University of Science and Technology EMBA programme are based outside Hong Kong .  That some of these top executives are willing to fly half-way around the world every other weekend amidst their busy schedules to come to Hong Kong to attend lectures is a strong affirmation of the strengths and attractiveness of this unique programme.

The demand for top-notch talents in business will continue to grow, and high-quality education is pivotal in sustaining the vibrancy and competitiveness of any economy.  Hong Kong is in a keen race with cities around the world to attract the best talents.  With the dedication and innovative minds of all those involved, I am confident that Hong Kong will continue to be a centre for cultivating visionary leaders and executives, and that the Kellogg-Hong Kong University of Science and Technology EMBA programme will continue to scale new heights.

Thank you.