The University of Hong Kong (HKU) has taken the lead among the city’s eight public institutions for higher education by amassing the highest financial reserves. The figure recorded for the previous academic year was a staggering HK$41.5 billion (US$5.3 billion), marking a growth of 12% in comparison to the 2022-23 period.

Data for each institution was supplied to the Post on Wednesday, revealing growth rates that varied between 6% and 14%. Notably, the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) emerged as second and third in terms of their respective financial reserves.

It was reported earlier by The Post that the total reserves of these eight universities had escalated to an approximate HK$140 billion. However, when asked for more specific details, the institutions advised The Post to refer to their yearly reports, while declining to disclose individual amounts.

All eight of these public universities have made their financial status transparent through the release of annual reports. Among them, only HKUST has revealed the specific numbers of its reserves.

Chow Man-kong, a lawmaker and the current chairman of the Legislative Council’s education panel, voiced his opinion on the matter on Wednesday. He advised that these universities, given their robust financial position, should be prepared to tackle potential funding cuts.

This information is valuable for those interested in the financial side of higher education, whether for investment purposes or simply to stay informed.