The University Grants Committee has endorsed the Chinese University's proposal to open a third law school to promote healthy competition in legal education.

The committee met last month to examine academic development proposals submitted by the eight committee-funded institutions for the 2005-2008 triennium.

Guided by expert advice and taking into account of the role and ability of the university to mount such a programme, the committee believes there is merit in establishing a third law school.

Proposals respond to manpower needs

Committee chairman Alice Lam said the institutions have responded positively to Government advice on specific manpower requirements, including nurses, teachers and lawyers.

They have also forwarded proposals on priority areas, like logistics, tourism, visual arts and creative media. The proposals will support Hong Kong's transition into a knowledge-based economy.

Mrs Lam said: "The institutions are well focused on their respective roles and have concentrated their proposed academic offerings in their respective areas of strength. They have sound plans to achieve international competitiveness in teaching and research. They have also demonstrated genuine interest in developing deeper collaboration with institutions, both locally and overseas."

Performance assessment to launch in August

The committee's final views on the academic development proposals and the funding recommendations for the 2005-2008 triennium, will all be subject to the Government's endorsement later in the year.

The committee will assess institutions' performance against their roles under the Performance & Role-Related Funding Scheme in August. The scheme aims to recognise and encourage performance, and to facilitate institutions to develop themselves.