Chinese University of Hong Kong introduces two new courses to help youngsters overcome adversity in wake of recent student deaths
Classes on positive psychology and challenges of today’s world aim to address issues that many students face when moving from secondary to tertiary education
Chinese University is launching two classes this school year to help youngsters build resilience and broaden their knowledge of the world, as many students find the transition from secondary to tertiary education daunting.
The classes titled “Live to Flourish: The Science and Practice of Positive Psychology” and “Grand Challenges for Global Citizens in the 21st Century” – which looks at issues such as pollution and income disparity – were conceptualised by CUHK president and vice-chancellor Rocky Tuan Sung-chi, who took the top position at the university in January this year.
Tuan said the courses, each with about 40 places, were aimed at helping youngsters realise it was possible to “overcome adversities and proactively find solutions to difficulties”.
“Because the world is changing too quickly and society is very complicated, it is very important for everyone to know how to adapt to these developments and have positive, proactive and analytical thinking,” the internationally renowned biomedical scientist said.
He was quick to add that positive psychology was not the same as positive thinking – instead of focusing on thinking that everything is OK, the former seeks to understand what is happening and how one can handle challenges.
