CityU’s role issue has become a focus of attention since Ming Pao Daily published an interview with Sir Gordon Wu, Council Chairman, on  3 March, implying that CityU has drifted from its mission, it is an infant university, and it needlessly competes for a high university ranking.

Sir Gordon’s statements have generated concerns and dismay in the University community. Since then, students, staff and alumni have expressed their deep concerns and reiterated their support for CityU’s direction.

Students voice their support for the University. Students' Union President Douglas Wong said the University has produced many talented graduates and that it spares no efforts in teaching and learning. He commented that the high ranking only reflects international recognition of the University’s hard work.

In the April issue of the Students' Union newspaper, an editorial says an “infant university” remark not only fails to recognize the University’s teaching and research achievements, but it also hits hard on the morale of staff and students.

It is understood that members of the City University of Hong Kong Alumni Association have expressed concerns. They said that CityU has experienced fast development and recorded great achievements in the past 20 years. The alumni said they are proud of the University’s high ranking worldwide, which reflects the University’s top education quality.

More than 120 staff members have initiated a signature campaign to express that the Chairman’s remarks have hurt the University, not just its reputation, but also staff, alumni and students.

It is understood that the Board of the Faculty of Science and Engineering has told Sir Gordon that Board members regret his deleterious remarks.

Indeed, some members of the University Grants Committee in February have expressed that CityU has not deviated from its role.