Professor S. Joe Qin
Welcome to Lingnan University!
As a Hong Kong tertiary institution with a long and storied history, Lingnan University traces its roots back to its establishment in Guangzhou in 1888. It thrived in higher education under the names Lingnan Xuexiao and Lingnan University until 1952, before being re-established in Hong Kong in 1967. Today, Lingnan’s goal is to become a research-intensive liberal arts institution in the digital era, renowned for exceptional teaching, learning, research, and community engagement with global recognition.
At Lingnan, our students receive more than just an academic education. Our well-rounded approach blends the best of Chinese and Western liberal arts traditions, preparing students to excel in all aspects of life while upholding humanity’s core values. We equip our graduates with the tools and skillsets necessary to make meaningful contributions to society.
Reflecting this educational commitment, Lingnan University continues to gain strong international recognition across global rankings. In the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, we achieved a historic milestone by ranking first in the world for “Quality Education”, becoming the first university in Hong Kong to lead any of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. We also ranked No. 1 in Hong Kong for “No Poverty”, affirming our commitment to equitable access and social responsibility.
In the THE World University Rankings 2026, Lingnan made a strong debut in the 301–350 band out of 2,191 universities from 115 countries or territories, highlighting our growing global profile. Meanwhile, in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, we doubled our number of ranked subjects from five to ten, with new recognition in fields such as Communication and Media Studies, Sociology, and Business and Management. At the same time, we maintained strong performance in our traditional areas of academic excellence. Notably, Social Policy and Administration and Philosophy were ranked among the top 20 in Asia, reaffirming Lingnan’s enduring strengths and growing reputation across the region.
As the President of Lingnan University, I am excited to share my vision for the future of our esteemed institution. My goal is to connect Lingnan's rich heritage, integrate digital-age innovations, and align with the opportunities presented by the Greater Bay Area (GBA).
To build a strong foundation for the future, it is essential that we honour and uphold Lingnan's legacy of academic excellence, social responsibility, and education for service. As we embrace the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century, this legacy must continue to guide us—especially in the context of digital transformation and regional integration.
Lingnan is enhancing digital literacy and fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among our students, faculty, and staff. We recognise that technology plays a vital role in education, research, and community engagement, and we are integrating cutting-edge technologies and innovative pedagogies into our curriculum.
Our aim is to cultivate a community of lifelong learners who are adaptable, creative, and ethical leaders in the digital age. By leveraging technology and nurturing a spirit of innovation, we are shaping the future and preparing our graduates to tackle global challenges and make a meaningful impact on society.
Through strengthened engagement with the Greater Bay Area (GBA), we are actively collaborating with universities, industries, governments, and civil society across the region. We take great pride in promoting our distinct values and contributions as a liberal arts institution in Hong Kong. Lingnan recognises the importance of broadening perspectives through cross-cultural and interdisciplinary dialogues and exchanges. Our strategic location and role as a bridge between China and the world present a unique opportunity to capitalise on our strengths and contribute to the region’s development.
I believe that by connecting to our past, present, and future, we can redefine and revitalise the meaning and mission of liberal arts and sciences education in Hong Kong—now increasingly recognised as STEAM. I invite you to join me on this journey of exploration and discovery, as we work together to make Lingnan a globally recognised, locally rooted, and regionally impactful university. Together, we can build on Lingnan’s legacy and create an even brighter future for all.
Professor S. Joe Qin
President and Wai Kee Kau Chair Professor of Data Science