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Education Council (TEC) in Britain, while validation for others is
being sought; the validated programmes carry accreditation and
recognition from a large number of institutions and professional
societies, both locally and overseas.
2.62 Hong Kong Polytechnic
The Hong Kong Polytechnic was
formally established in 1972; it developed from the former Hong Kong
Technical College, which was under the control of the Education
Department. The bulk of the Polytechnic's finances come from the
UPGC (q.v.). There are 17 teaching departments grouped under three
divisions (Applied Science; Commerce and Design; Engineering) and
two institutes (the Institute of Medical and Health Care, and the
Institute of Textiles and Clothing). A centre of Environmental
Studies began operating in January 1980. At present the Polytechnic
offers full-time, sandwich, part-time day -release and part-time
evening programmes of one to four years' duration, leading to the
awards of associateship, advanced higher diploma, higher diploma,
diploma, higher certificate, certificate and other qualifications.
These cover a wide range of both technical and commercial subjects.
Mixed-mode study programmes and short courses preparing students
for professional examinations are also organised. Close liaison
with the community is maintained through various channels.
Polytechnic staff members assist and advise the HKEA and the HKTC.
Advisory Committees have been set up for every department, centre
and institute, and prominent people from commerce and industry, the
civil service and the universities, with wide knowledge and
experience in their fields, are appointed as members.
Liaison and
joint consultative committees have been formed with the Education