The 2024 Joint Graduation Ceremony of Saint Francis University (SFU) and Caritas Bianchi College of Careers (CBCC) was held today (7 Dec 2024), marking the first Graduation Ceremony since SFU was granted university title. In 2024, over 1300 graduates from Postgraduate, Undergraduate, Associate-degree, Higher Diploma and Diploma programmes of both institutes participated.
Today's Ceremony was officiated by His Eminence Cardinal Stephen CHOW, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong and Chairperson of the SFU Board of Governors, Dr. Denis CHANG, Chairperson of the SFU Council, Rev. Peter CHOY, Vicars General and Vice-chairperson of the SFU Board of Governors, Rev. Joseph YIM, Chief Executive of Caritas - Hong Kong and Vice-Chairperson of the SFU Council, Prof. LO Tit Wing, Acting President of SFU, and Dr Kim MAK, Founding President of SFU, who witnessed and shared the joy of the graduating students.
Dr Denis CHANG delivered an occasional address at the ceremony, offering his heartfelt congratulations to the graduating students. "2024 is a historic year for us, marking three significant milestones: firstly, the renaming as Saint Francis University, secondly, becoming a University of Applied Sciences, and joining as a full member of the Alliance of Universities of Applied Sciences," Dr CHANG stated, reflecting SFU's recognition in governance quality, learning environment, student support, industry collaboration, and accreditation.
Dr CHANG mentioned that SFU's vision and mission not only focus on nurturing professionals but also emphasize moral and character education, hoping that graduates can develop a positive outlook on life and contribute to society. He encouraged the graduates to "stay grounded,"(不要離地) maintain critical thinking, care for society, and uphold our motto of "Ad Destinatum Persequor"(自強不息). Finally, he wished all graduates good health, happiness, and well-being.
Representing all graduates, Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Physiotherapy graduate Cloris HON, Bachelor of Social Sciences (Honours) graduate Tsz Ching FONG and Bachelor of Nursing (Honours) graduate Andy LUI delivered vote of thanks respectively. They expressed gratitude to their families and teachers, acknowledging not only the academic knowledge, professional role models, and practical experience gained from their teachers but also the encouragement and support that will benefit them for a lifetime. Despite taking up different roles after graduation, they pledged to continue embodying the spirit of SFU, upholding professional knowledge and ethical principles, caring for the public, and benefiting the community.