Professor Joshua Mok Advocates “Research with a Sense of Purpose” at University of Manchester Education Forum

27 February 2026

On 27 February 2026, the University of Manchester successfully hosted a panel discussion on "The Future of Education Research and Scholarship" at its Hong Kong Centre. Professor Joshua Mok, Provost and Vice President (Academic and Research) and Dean of the Graduate School at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (HSUHK), was invited as a distinguished panellist to explore the frontier directions of education research alongside scholars from renowned institutions.

The forum was moderated by Dr Bee HUGHES, Senior Lecturer in Educational Leadership at the University of Manchester. Panellists included Professor Chi-keung Alan CHEUNG, Dean of Education at The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Professor Lianghuo FAN, Dean of the Faculty of Education at the University of Macau; Professor Bruce MACFARLANE, Dean of the Faculty of Education and Human Development at The Education University of Hong Kong; and Professor Lisa MURTAGH, Head of the Manchester Institute of Education at the University of Manchester. The distinguished panel engaged in in-depth dialogue on the future direction of education research, sharing practical experiences and academic insights from different regions.

During the roundtable discussion, Professor Mok emphasised the importance of pursuing research and scholarship with a clear sense of purpose, with the mission of driving positive social development. He stated, "Research is not merely about accumulating knowledge; it must aim to create apositive impact on society, enhance cross-cultural understanding, foster grace, and mediate conflicts."

The event brought together education scholars and policymakers from Hong Kong, China, and the UK, providing a valuable platform for regional educational collaboration. HSUHK will continue to support socially impactful academic inquiry and advance the integration of education research with global issues.