75 years of connecting the UK and Hong Kong
In 2023, the British Council in Hong Kong is marking its 75th anniversary, celebrating our commitment of building connections between the UK and Hong Kong.
Since our establishment in Hong Kong in 1948, the British Council has been dedicated to promote knowledge, understanding and trust between the people of Hong Kong and the UK through the Arts, Education and the English language. It has supported generations of young people in Hong Kong to access the education and skills they need to succeed.
We opened our first library in 1949 and it was the first free lending library in Hong Kong. By 1982, the library received an average of 850 visitors a day visitors. Our first English Teaching Centre in Hong Kong was opened in 1976 and later became the largest teaching operation in the British Council global network. Over the past 47 years, we have taught English to approximately 750,000 people in Hong Kong. Apart from that, providing quality English teaching and assessment opportunities remains a core part of what we do.
Throughout our 75 years, we have contributed to the arts and cultural life of the territory by supporting tours of major UK artists and cultural institutions and supporting artistic exchanges. In 1979, with the support of the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, we helped establish the Chung Ying Theatre, which today is an integral part of the arts and cultural fabric of the city.
We are planning various programmes and activities throughout this year. Stay tuned to our website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more events and activities to celebrate our 75th anniversary year together.
75th Anniversary Reception
Earlier this year we held a reception at our headquarter to celebrate our 75th anniversary with partners and guests. Take a look at the highlight video from the evening.