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83
The more so is such a construction liable to be placed
on this paragraph when it is read in conjunction with the last part of paragraph 89, which states :-
"But apart from this we feel that for Hong Kong the initial qualifications required should generally suffice without the expense of further long courses of study in England.
"
As regards the academic status of the University,
recently appointed members of the senior staff can attest to the fact that, thanks to those who have given long years of service to this institution, it had, at home, a first-class reputation. The endowments were subscribed by our benefactors, both Chinese and European, on the assurance that this University would provide an education equal to that obtainable in England. This was clearly stated by Sir Frederick Lugard in his printed brochure on the University dated March 11th, 1912, in which the following appears:
The
"That the degrees of the University should
be fully equal to those conferred by British universities was a fundamental proposition and it was on this basis that the subscriptions were raised. Viceroy of Canton (H.E. Chang Jen Chun) who was an ardent supporter of the University asked for an assurance on this point and when satisfied issued a striking_manifesto in support of this scheme. The original Committee recorded by resolution that the degrees should be equal to those of a British University and this has been confirmed by a resolution of the University Court."
We can think of nothing more unwise and unjust than a departure from this declared ideal. How can we expect China to welcome our help towards her development if it is even remotely suggested that something inferior to the education provided by British universities is sufficient for her students? As this is the only British university in the Far East, nothing but our best can suffice, both for China and for British prestige, and a policy which tends to discourage the academic ambitions of the professional staff must be unique in the Empire, and would, if accepted be a source of profound discouragement to us all.