The University of Hong Kong’s (HKU) president and vice-chancellor, Xiang Zhang, has announced he will step down in 2028 upon completing his second five-year term. The announcement was made in an email to the university community, seen by the South China Morning Post, in the early hours of Monday, July 27, 2026.
Zhang described his eight years at HKU as “a defining honour” and reflected on the university’s future amid a “complicated, rapidly changing world marked by polarised views and conflicts.” He emphasized the institution’s need to address challenges brought by artificial intelligence.
“I have realised that it is time for HKU to embrace fresh ideas and for a new leader to guide this great transformation,” Zhang said. Expressing a desire to return to his scientific work, he added, “Therefore, I am announcing my decision to retire from the presidency and vice-chancellorship after I complete my 10-year tenure in 2028.”
Zhang’s departure marks the end of a decade-long leadership period during which he worked to elevate HKU’s academic standing.
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