It is commonly understood that, due to the distance learning mode and the role of working adults, there are many constraints on OUHK students in organizing themselves and participating in student activities. While recognizing these constraints, the University, however, also believes that participation in student activities can be a fulfilling experience for OUHK students and that it enhances learning.

Since February 1999, the University has been supporting student activities directly through the Committee on Student Affairs and the Student Affairs Office. A total of seven student bodies have successfully applied for recognition, funding and other support.

A wide variety of activities have been held and planned. To enhance students' knowledge in areas relating to subjects being studied, seminars and discussions were organized by the Environmental Studies Society, the Student Social Sciences Society, and the Student History Society. Topics included 'Indoor air quality', 'Social changes and constraints on individuals' and 'Sociology and society'.

On the social side, some 40 members of the Dragon Boat Club participated in the dragon boat races to compete with local and international teams, and the Student Football Society held its first football match in mid-June.

To tackle some of the constraints these student societies are facing, the University is exploring different kinds of services to facilitate their set-up and operation. Some academic staff are serving as advisors to the societies. Besides providing funding for their routine operation and activities, the University is also considering other services for them. These include the provision of a notice-board for student societies to communicate their news to students, the use of the OUHK as their mailing address, and a mail collection service outside office hours, as well as a simplification of the venue-booking procedures.

To broaden students' exposure, the University has also sponsored students to join various exchange activities. Four students joined a delegation to Shantung and Beijing in late June and early July 1999. They had the opportunity to visit some historical sights and provincial officials, and to meet with their counterparts on the mainland. In mid-October 1999, the University will again organize, with funding, a delegation of ten outstanding students to participate in the 13th Annual Conference of the Asian Association of Open Universities in Beijing. These students will have the chance to participate in academic exchange with scholars and students on distance and open learning.