Media meet: Institute of Education Vice President (Administration) Chris Mong, Council Chairman Thomas Leung, President Designate Anthony Cheung and Acting President Lee Wing-on meet the media. (Pic: HKIEd)

The Institute of Education Council has appointed Anthony Cheung as its next president. He will assume office in January.

Council Chairman Thomas Leung said Professor Cheung, a leading academic in public administration, is highly regarded by the community and has vast experience in tertiary education and in public services.

Professor Cheung said his priorities for the institute will be to attain university title, secure greater resources and funding, and implement the development blueprint.

"I look forward to cultivating a collegial spirit and participatory culture with staff and students, further strengthening our academic standing and reaching out to our partners in Hong Kong, the Mainland and the region," he said.

Welcoming the appointment Secretary for Education Michael Suen said the Government respects academic freedom, adding Professor Cheung's identity as an Executive Councillor does not have any conflict with his new post.

He said the development blueprint is being studied and views will be gauged via different channels within a year before deciding the way forward.