Caritas College gets down to Business

August 2, 2011: “Towards a Catholic university” is the slogan at Hong Kong’s newly-established Caritas Institute of Higher Education (CIHE). But as it opens its doors and prepares to welcome its first intake, the first course it offers will not be in a Catholic or theological subject; it will be a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, a popular, practical option much demanded by Hong Kong students.
Dr. Reggie Kwan, CIHE president, admits that theological or religious courses could not be part of the initial offering as they simply would not attract enough enrolments.

“But as Hong Kong’s sole tertiary institution with a Catholic background, the CIHE will hold fast to the Catholic vision, to provide all students with a holistic education and correct human values,” he says.
“The Catholic liberal arts education in our curriculum will provide a framework where ethical, moral and spiritual values are not only emphasized but percolate through every course.”

“I believe every student’s personality and morality, as well as their professional knowledge, will be enhanced when they graduate from here.”
Formerly known as Caritas Francis Hsu College, after the first Chinese bishop of Hong Kong, the institute was established in 1985. The first academic year under its new name will start in September. Its four-year BBA degree, which is recognized by the government, will include training in accountancy, corporate management and information systems.