EdUHK Expresses Deep Condolences over Tai Po Wang Fuk Court Fire
Establishes “EdUHK Temporary Support Centre” to Provide Educational and Emotional Support for Affected Students
The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) expresses profound sorrow over the No. 5 alarm fire that broke out yesterday at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, which caused severe casualties, and extends its deepest condolences to the affected residents.
As a higher education institution rooted in Tai Po, EdUHK activated its emergency response mechanism last night, convening a cross-departmental meeting to formulate a series of support measures for affected students and residents. In addition to proactively contacting teachers and students residing in Wang Fuk Court to ensure their safety, the University is drawing on its strengths in teaching, teacher education, and knowledge transfer to establish an “EdUHK Temporary Support Centre.” The Centre will open some campus facilities, including parts of the indoor sports hall, and recruit retired teachers, psychologists, alumni, and student-teachers to provide temporary learning space as well as emotional support for schoolchildren and families affected by the fire.
The University has also set up counselling hotlines to provide psychological and emotional support for affected students and teachers. EdUHK experts in psychology have been engaged to conduct online seminars and workshops for teachers, students and parents, equipping them with skills in psychological support.
Located at the Sports Hall in Block E of the University, the temporary support centre is scheduled to commence service tomorrow afternoon (28 November). It will be open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. As Hong Kong’s only higher education institution dedicated to teacher education, EdUHK, guided by the spirit of “Education First, Serving Society,” will arrange volunteer teachers, student-teachers, and alumni to provide appropriate activities and tutorial support. This ensures that affected schoolchildren can continue learning in a safe and professional environment, while easing the worries and burdens of parents. More details will be shared later.
EdUHK will work closely with the Tai Po District Office and District Officers to register affected residents of Wang Fuk Court who require educational support. In the first phase, around 100 places will be offered, with adjustments made according to resources and demand. Shuttle transport will also be arranged to facilitate travel between the Centre and Tai Po town centre.
In view of traffic disruptions in Tai Po caused by the fire, EdUHK has announced that all classes today (27 November) will be conducted online. Staff members who are not required to remain on campus may work from home. In addition, the University’s Emergency Relief Fund will provide assistance to students displaced by the fire or facing financial hardship.
At this time of tragedy and grief across Hong Kong Special Administration Region, China, President Professor John Lee Chi-Kin has issued a letter to all staff, students and alumni, expressing deep condolences for the severe casualties caused by the No. 5 alarm blaze at Wang Fuk Court, and extending heartfelt sympathies to affected residents. He also paid the highest tribute to frontline rescue personnel who remain steadfast in their duties. Professor Lee called on all members of the University to support one another, show care and compassion, and uphold the spirit of “Education with Care.” By drawing on EdUHK’s educational expertise, the University will continue to support and assist affected residents and schoolchildren, standing united to overcome this difficult time together.
Hotlines for Support (for affected EdUHK students and staff of Wang Fuk Court):
- Student Affairs Office Support Hotline: Tel: 2948 6893 / 2948 6404 | WhatsApp: 2948 6244 / 9260 5536
- 24-hour Counselling Hotline: 8208 1155
- Counselling Service Hotline (Office Hours): 2948 6245
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EdUHK Expresses Deep Condolences over Tai Po Wang Fuk Court Fire Establishes “Temporary Support Centre” to Provide Educational and Emotional Support for Affected Students
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