U21 Annual Network Meeting & Presidential Symposium 2024

Presidents and Vice-Chancellors of U21 member universities, along with U21 Senior Leaders, are invited to attend the U21 2024 Annual Network Meeting and Presidential Symposium. This event will provide an opportunity to reconnect with peers in person to discuss matters of importance to the network and to shape the forthcoming year's agenda.

The theme for the 2024 U21 Presidential Symposium 'Global Universities and the Workforce of the Future' will consider how universities can adapt to the changing needs of society and provide students with the tools they need to succeed in our ever-changing world.

Global Universities and the Workforce of the Future

The digital revolution has significantly transformed the global workforce, creating new challenges and opportunities for universities and students. The increasing use of artificial intelligence, automation and digital technologies in the workplace continues to change the nature of work and the skills required to succeed. It is essential that the next generation is equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive.

By providing students with access to cutting-edge technologies and innovative learning opportunities, and incorporating digital literacy, universities must lead the way in helping their students to develop the skills they need to succeed in a variety of professions, whilst also providing critical thinking skills to prepare learners to meet the challenges of the digital workplace.

The Presidential Symposium will provide a platform for exploring these issues and developing strategies on how to prepare next-gen talent for the opportunities ahead. By embracing digital innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity, together global universities can build a strong workforce equipped to meet the future needs of society.

How To Register

Invitations for the U21 Annual Network Meeting and Presidential Symposium 2024 were issued via email to Presidents and Senior Leaders in the U21 network and the registration date has now passed. If you believe you should have received an invitation and you have not, please contact U21@universitas21.com. 

Programme Overview

There will be an informal reception for delegates arriving on the Tuesday evening. The programme of meetings will start on Wednesday morning. A full programme of events and meetings will be made available to registered delegates; please see the below timetable of an overview of meetings and social events:

About the University of Hong Kong

The University of Hong Kong (HKU), founded in 1911, is one of founding members of U21 and the oldest tertiary institution in Hong Kong. The University currently has 10 faculties: Architecture, Arts, Business and Economics, Dentistry, Education, Engineering, Law, Medicine, Science and Social Sciences.

As an Asian global University, HKU delivers impact through internationalization, innovation and interdisciplinarity. It attracts and nurtures global scholars through excellence in research, teaching and learning, and knowledge exchange, and makes a positive social contribution through global presence, regional significance and engagement with the rest of China.

The University is ranked the 1st Most International University in the World in the 2023 Times Higher Education World University Rankings. In 2022-23, it has a total student population of over 36,000, of which around 45% are from overseas. With 67.3% non-local professoriate staff, the HKU faculty is as diverse as their student body. The HKU campus is located in the heart of Hong Kong, a vibrant and dynamic city that offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

About Hong Kong

Located on China's southern coast, Hong Kong is a unique place where East meets West and old meets new. A former British colony and current Special Administrative Region of China, Hong Kong is home to an exceptional culture. Having inherited ancient Chinese heritage and experienced a period of Western, colonial influence, Hong Kong is a multifaceted city where English and Cantonese, “Feng Shui” and football, towering skyscrapers and historical sites exist side by side. From the bustling streets of Mong Kok to the stunning vistas of Victoria Peak, Hong Kong is a city that will keep you engaged and inspired throughout your stay.

Accommodation

Le Meridien Hong Kong, Cyberport (5*)

Attendees will be accommodated at Le Meridien Hong Kong, Cyberport, a unique urban resort located in the south side of Hong Kong and surrounded by a lush natural environment with restful South China Sea view. It is a chic, modern lifestyle hotel providing an authentic and elevated discovery experience. Completely transformed in 2022, this hotel has a mid-century modern aesthetic, emphasizing natural materials contrasted by darker, tactile design features, creating a fresh and welcoming ambiance, with 170 spacious rooms and suites, four distinctive dining options, a stunning outdoor swimming pool, two gyms and surrounded by verdant nature. The hotel is also close to a range of cultural, historic, and entertainment destinations.  Acomplimentary shuttle service runs every hour between the Hotel and Hong Kong MTR station in Central and the Airport Express station as well as taxis being readily available.  The University of Hong Kong is approximately 10 minutes’ drive from the Hotel and transportation will be arranged for attendees.. Rooms have been reserved for U21 AGM attendees, with room upgrades available to a Deluxe Ocean View room or a Discovery Corner Room.  Le Meridien have private meeting rooms you can book, or space can be reserveed in the restaurant areas for individual meetings.

Book accommodation at Le Meridien Hong Kong, Cyberport

JEN Hong Kong by Shangri-La (4*)

JEN Hong Kong by Shangri-La, a mid-range lifestyle hotel located in the Western District of Hong Kong Island, with the MTR HKU Station at its doorstep. It is home to a fascinating mix of vintage and modern, while featuring an East-meets-West culture in Hong Kong. The Hotel offers convenient proximity to key transport junctions - 10 minutes from Central and 30 minutes from the airport. Offering 283 tastefully designed guestrooms and suites, it features a 50 feet rooftop pool and a fully equipped gym. Rooms have been reserved for U21 AGM attendees.  Upgrade options to a Club Mountain View Room with club access is available at a supplementary charge.  Any upgrade option will need to be requested via Sana Ko (zanako@hku.hk) at HKU.

Book accommodation at JEN Hong Kong by Shangri-La