Following the retirement of Prof. Charles K. Kao, a Search Committee was established in November 1994 to advise the University Council on the appointment of a new vice-chancellor. Ironically, it was not until September 1995 that the Student Unions of the three colleges were invited to express their opinions. Meanwhile, the Search Committee was said to receive 30 nominations and applications. Suddenly, Prof. Li appeared in a Forum as a candidate on 19 October. Two days later, he was announced to become the vice-chancellor in August 1996.

The process is like playing magic. We, the audience, can only watch the beginning and the results, but never the process and the reasons behind. We cannot ask why the rabbit changes to blossoms but not a pig within a black box. Choosing a vice-chancellor is totally different from playing magic. The process is not an entertainment for the students. On the contrary, he is the one who serves the university and the students.

Many people insist on limiting students’ participation because of the principle of confidentiality. It is true that if the personal information of the candidates is disclosed, some incovenience and embarrassment might result. Yet, the responsible candidates would understand the advantages of disclosing information outweigh the disadvantages. The students and staff are the ones mostly affected by the outcomes. They need to participate in the process on the one hand but they are not experts on the other. How can the staff and students decide who is the most suitable candidate without having enough information?

Going back to the subject, the selection process, instead of anyone personally, should be the focus of criticism. Indeed, reform is impossible without a concrete student force. More students should be encouraged to play a more active role in the university’s administration.

In the meantime, we have no alternative but accept the offer. “I will listen to all students’ opinion,” this is what Prof. Li has promised. This is also what we wish for.