Lingnan University President, Joe Qin, recently clarified in an interview with Sing Tao Daily that the university’s students’ union is not affiliated with the institution. According to Qin, the students’ union is an independent registered group and is not under the control of the university. He emphasized that the student body was never part of Lingnan University and that the society is responsible for regulating their activities.
The relationship between universities and students’ unions has been a topic of discussion in Hong Kong, especially after the 2019 protests and unrest. Several universities in the city have severed ties with their students’ unions, citing various reasons. In late September, the Lingnan University Students’ Union Press Bureau revealed that the university had instructed them not to use the term “Lingnan University Press Bureau” on any publications or merchandise. The university was concerned that the term could be misconstrued as an official group of the institution.
Moreover, the students’ union faced challenges in setting up a booth on campus to sell T-shirts and distribute promotional materials. The university rejected their application, leading to further tensions between the two entities. The students’ union also highlighted the difficulties faced by students’ unions in Hong Kong, with many groups disbanding or planning to disband in recent years.
President Joe Qin, who took office last June, has been at the forefront of the university’s decision to stop collecting fees on behalf of the students’ union. This move aligns with the changes happening at other universities in Hong Kong, such as the disbandment of the Chinese University of Hong Kong Students’ Union and the cessation of recognition for the University of Hong Kong Students’ Union.
The crackdown on students’ unions in Hong Kong has been a controversial issue, with some groups facing pressure to disband or change their operations. The protests that erupted in 2019 over the extradition bill have had a lasting impact on the relationship between universities and students’ unions. The demand for democracy and accountability has led to increased scrutiny of student organizations and their activities.
In light of these developments, it is essential to consider the role of students’ unions in advocating for student rights and interests. While universities have the authority to regulate student organizations, it is crucial to ensure that students have a voice in decision-making processes. The challenges faced by students’ unions in Hong Kong reflect broader societal tensions and the need for dialogue and collaboration between different stakeholders. As the situation continues to evolve, it is important to uphold the principles of freedom of association and expression in academic institutions.