HONG KONG – Hong Kong Metropolitan University Li Ka Shing School of Professional and Continuing Education (HKMU LiPACE) held a program information day at its Kwai Hing Campus on Thursday to help young people plan their future pathways, ahead of the imminent release of the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) examination results.

The event spotlighted four next-generation Higher Diploma programs tailored to local and regional development, demonstrating how Vocational Professional Education and Training (VPET) can meet evolving societal demands.

“With the structural transformation of the socio-economy, traditional academic degrees are no longer the sole safety net for young people. Tertiary education must step forward to cultivate 'professional skills' equipped for real-world challenges,” said Benjamin Chan, dean of HKMU LiPACE.

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Student representatives shared their success stories. Leung Cheuk-chi, a student of the Higher Diploma in Health and Molecular Testing, received a Year 3 admission offer for the Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences at The Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Chong Yui-to, studying the Higher Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Studies, secured a Year 3 offer at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Benjamin Li, from the Creative Culture and Arts Practice program, entered Hong Kong Baptist University's Bachelor of Communication (Honours) program.

The featured programs address emerging industries. The Higher Diploma in Creative Culture and Arts Practice focuses on “practical learning,” covering curation, arts administration and digital creative management. The Pet Care and Lifestyle Services program integrates animal anatomy and behavioral psychology to elevate “loving care into scientific professional nursing.” The Health and Molecular Testing program features a dedicated laboratory for simulation training, while Tourism and Hospitality Studies uses a “Smart Hotel Classroom” to prepare students for the mega-events economy.

For the 2026–27 academic year, HKMU LiPACE is offering 13 full-time Higher Diploma programs and one Diploma program. Seven Higher Diplomas are covered under the government's Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors (SSSDP), providing 560 subsidized places. Six additional programs are eligible for Continuing Education Fund support.

An application fee waiver is available until July 31 for eligible applicants.