On Monday evening, our Department was filled with joy, pride, and gratitude as we gathered to mark a truly special occasion — the successful conclusion of another remarkable academic year and the 40th anniversary of our Master of Social Science in Criminology [MSocSc(Crim)] programme. On behalf of the Department, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us — our dedicated faculty, hardworking administrative staff, enthusiastic students, alumni, and friends. Your presence made this celebration truly memorable and reaffirmed our shared commitment to advancing sociology education, research, and professional development.

Reflecting on our journey, we are proud to have established HKU’s Criminology master’s programme as the first of its kind in Hong Kong back in 1986. Over four decades, it has evolved to meet the changing landscape of crime and justice, attracting a diverse cohort of students from backgrounds such as law, social welfare, healthcare, and government services, all united by a passion for understanding and improving our society. Our programme’s sociological approach and practical focus continue to inspire students and practitioners alike, shaping the next generation of criminologists and justice advocates. This milestone is not just a celebration of our history but also a beacon guiding us into the future. We remain committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes local and global perspectives on crime and justice, cultivating critical research skills through innovative coursework, field trips, and engaging guest lectures.

A special thank you goes to our alumni and supporters who have contributed to the ongoing success of our programme, including the MSocSc Criminology Alumni Scholarship, established in 2009. Your generosity helps nurture outstanding students and promotes excellence in our community. As we look ahead, I encourage everyone to stay connected and continue supporting our mission. Whether through participation, collaboration, or donations, your involvement makes a difference.

Once again, congratulations to our graduating and current students — your dedication over the past year is truly inspiring. To our alumni and friends, thank you for being part of our journey. We are excited about what the future holds and look forward to creating more impactful moments together.

Let’s keep striving for excellence, innovation, and social impact. Here’s to many more years of growth and success for our Department and for the MSocSc(Crim) programme! 🎓🌟

Prof Tarani Chandola

Head, Department of Sociology