The devolution of responsibilities is another feature of the new quality assurance process. Previously, for example, if a professor wanted to introduce a new course, the procedure was a very hierarchical one, with final approval by the Senate. But within the 3Ps framework, there's considerably more autonomy. "Essentially, it's enough that the faculty boards or their equivalents approve. Any further steps, including ratification by the Senate, become formalities," said Professor Wang.

Established in 1993, QAC has come a long way in enhancing quality assurance on campus and fostering a culture of quality assurance. With limited resources, it has set up such schemes as the Teaching Excellence Award, Quality Campus Life Fund, Internal Quality Audit, and various teaching evaluation and student assessment programmes. "From buying a new boat for our Rowing Club to the Student Ambassador Programme, we try to make life more complete for the students," said Professor Wang, who is also chairman of the Quality Campus Life Fund. "A little money strategically targeted can make a big difference for student learning."

Asked if the committee had encountered any obstacles to date, Professor Wang said: "Nothing that we cannot overcome. I think our major challenge so far has been that we haven't been as effective as we would like in communicating. I spent 30 years teaching in Berkeley. By comparison, I can see CityU is doing a very good job in teaching and research. I hope we can get that message out."