Economy and SARS

Despite the continuation of the economic downturn, our graduates from the class of 2002 demonstrated their value with nearly 94% in work or taking further studies by December 2002, according to a University survey.

While the tough job climate took its toll on the community's outlook, Hong Kong should not be unduly pessimistic. Many other locations worldwide also had to face a less-than-cheerful economy during this period. In particular, Hong Kong can be proud of the way it responded to the unprecedented experience of SARS and the resilience shown both economically and in spirit.

SARS brought out people's strengths. Hong Kong's steadfastness and courage in facing the unknown brought praise from the international community, and as this report's special section on SARS shows, HKUST contributed in full measure to this notable response.

The outbreak was at its height from March to May 2003. HKUST ensured the continuation of thousands of young people's education, many of whom were at a crucial stage in their transition from students to working members of society, through the rapid adoption of innovative online teaching and learning methods. At the same time, we played a full role in working with the wider community, particularly in the environmental arena, to explain SARS, reduce it to the recognized, and thus help people handle both the disease and their fears.