Throughout its 60-year history, the School of Journalism and Communication at The Chinese University of Hong Kong has cultivated generations of scholars, including Professors Anthony Fung and Macau Mak. Though graduating decades apart, both have found their way back to teach at their alma mater.

Despite numerous changes over six decades, the School’s fundamental philosophy has remained steadfast. While some view universities merely as vocational training grounds, both Anthony and Macau see it differently. What’s the most valuable takeaway from studying journalism and communication?

According to Anthony, technology evolves at a breakneck pace – from print media to radio, television, and now the era of digital media and AI. Technical skills often become outdated before they can be mastered. That’s why university education should focus less on technical training and more on developing systematic problem-solving abilities through sustained practice.

Macau shares this view. During his undergraduate and graduate studies in journalism and communication, the emphasis was on fostering critical thinking skills while maintaining a humanistic perspective. His experience as a reporter for the English-language student publication Varsity taught him a valuable lesson: while analyzing broader social issues, it’s crucial to understand individual stories. “In research, we often work with statistics, but behind each number is a human story. Learning to consider the human dimension in our analysis – that’s the most valuable lesson I gained from my journalism education.”

The two professors share more than just their alma mater and career paths – Macau was once Anthony’s student, and they became acquainted during a UK exchange program led by Anthony. For Macau, joining the School’s faculty was his primary goal after completing his doctorate. Having benefited immensely from his education there, he felt a deep sense of meaning in returning to nurture the next generation of students.

Anthony fondly recalls encouraging his academically gifted student to pursue advanced studies. Now that they’ve transitioned from mentor and mentee to colleagues, he takes genuine pride in Macau’s achievements. “I’m delighted to have Macau back teaching at the School. This represents our tradition of nurturing talent, and we hope to see more alumni return to contribute after completing their advanced degrees.”

Profiles:
Anthony Fung graduated from the School of Journalism and Communication at The Chinese University of Hong Kong in 1992, earning his master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Minnesota. He returned to his alma mater in 2001 and currently serves as the Wei Lun Professor of Journalism and Communication and Dean of Social Science.

Macau Mak earned his bachelor’s degree and MPhil from the School of Journalism and Communication at The Chinese University of Hong Kong in 2016 and 2020 respectively, followed by a Ph.D. from The University of Wisconsin-Madison. He joined the School as an Assistant Professor in 2024.