The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) is committed to fostering lifelong learning by hosting vocational training and executive education events open to the general public. Through our Institute of Professional and Vocational Education and Lifelong Learning (IPVELL), EdUHK delivers accessible, industry-relevant programmes that empower professionals, educators, and community members not enroled as university students. IPVELL’s mission is to promote industry-academia collaboration and provide flexible, innovative learning opportunities that meet labour market demands, while its vision emphasises building a community for continuous skill development and lifelong learning (https://ipvell.eduhk.hk/about-us). In 2024, EdUHK offered both programmed and ad-hoc events, ensuring inclusive access to high-quality education for all.

 

Programmed Vocational Training and Executive Education Programmes

EdUHK’s Professional Development Programmes (PDPs) are a cornerstone of our executive education offerings, providing short-term, structured courses designed for educators and professionals seeking to enhance their skills. In 2024, PDPs were delivered in flexible formats, including full-time block release (e.g., 5-week courses) and part-time modes (e.g., 5 full days on Saturdays or 10 weekday evenings). (https://www.apply.eduhk.hk/pdp/programmes). These programmes, recognised by the Education Bureau (EDB) as Refresher Training, are open to the general public, including special school teachers and education-related professionals not affiliated with EdUHK. Examples include:

 

Certificate in PDP for Teachers Using English as the Medium of Instruction in Secondary Schools
Certificate in Professional Development Programme on Emerging Technologies in Primary English
Certificate in Professional Development Programme on Mathematical Modelling in Secondary School STEAM Education

 

Additionally, IPVELL aims to support programmed certificate programmes across industries such as health management and innovation technology. These courses provide accessible pathways for career advancement, enabling participants to acquire industry-relevant skills through structured learning tailored to diverse professional needs.

 

Website logo of Institute of Professional and Vocational Education and Lifelong Learning

 

Ad-Hoc Events for Vocational and Professional Enhancement

To address emerging trends, IPVELL hosted the Greater Bay Area Beauty, Health Management, and Innovation Technology Symposium on 18 January 2024. Opening to the general public that includes industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and lifelong learners, this symposium explored interdisciplinary topics in beauty, health, and technology. It was held at EdUHK’s Tai Po Campus and featured expert-led sessions, including:

  • "The Evolution of Intellectual Capital and Learning Organisations: Exploration and Future" by Dr. Patrick Yun Pui Ho, Executive Co-Director of IPVELL, EdUHK.
  • "Prospects and Challenges of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Smart Enterprise Learning" by Dr. Ba Shen, Assistant Professor, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, EdUHK.
  • "Comprehensive and Refined Operations: Mind, Body, and Spirit Strategies to Enhance Beauty Salon Profitability" by Ms. Chung Lai Nga, Founder of The Soul Lantern School and EdUHK Course Development Consultant.
  • "How the Hong Kong Enclave Model Supports Greater Bay Area Enterprises in Integrating and Expanding Overseas", addressing regional business strategies by Mr. Oliver Wan.

This event fostered knowledge exchange and networking, equipping participants with practical insights for professional growth in high-demand sectors.

 

 

Supporting Collaborations and Future Outlook

EdUHK’s commitment to vocational training is strengthened by strategic partnerships. On 4 January 2024, IPVELL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Alliance for Education Accreditation (IAEA) to develop Vocational and Professional Education and Training (VPET) programmes and micro-credential courses (https://aedi.eduhk.hk). While these initiatives are planned for long-term implementation, they build on EdUHK’s 2024 successes, ensuring future public-access courses in applied learning. Additional collaborations with the Scout Association of Hong Kong also further enhance community-oriented training.

 

EdUHK today signs a Memorandum of Understanding with The International Alliance for Education Accreditation to promote VPET

香港童軍總會總監黎偉生（右二）和香港教育大學校長及教育發展與創新學院院長李子建（左二）見證下，雙方簽訂合作備忘錄。（香港童軍總會提供）

 

EdUHK invites everyone to explore these opportunities via https://ipvell.eduhk.hk and https://www.apply.eduhk.hk/pdp/programmes. By offering accessible, industry-aligned education, we empower individuals to thrive in their careers and contribute to a vibrant learning ecosystem.