Guests, staff, graduates and families witnessed the debut of the UOW College Hong Kong Mace at the 2021 Graduation Ceremony in December.
The grand occasion was signified as the Mace led the academic procession – empowering its graduates. This symbol of authority, with due regard for shared values with UOW and respect for local culture, can be expected to appear at future important ceremonies of UOW College Hong Kong.
Tradition of using a Mace derives from medieval times in England, when it was held by a bodyguard for dignitaries at ceremonial functions. Ceremonial maces are used by governing bodies worldwide, including the U.S. House of Representatives and the British Parliament. Nowadays the Mace is regarded as the symbol of authority for a university or education institution, and is present only when the President and regents are in attendance. Its presence signifies that the proceedings have official sanction. As a symbol of authority, it reminds us that universities are custodians both of the enduring traditions of learning and of the power they bestow upon those who come to learn. It is also a reminder that the learning process has not always been comfortable and easy.
Since the independence from City University of Hong Kong in 2020, UOW College Hong Kong has been sourcing its own Mace for use at such important occasions. After some initial research, staff of UOW College Hong Kong decided to make one themselves. The creative process involved sourcing the raw materials, as well as giving careful thought on what to include in the Mace’s design and markings to lend it appropriate significance.
The final product is 71 centimeters long and weighs about 1.5 kilograms. Meticulously handcrafted from black walnut wood, the shaft of the mace is embossed with six golden rings leading to the bronze-colored UOWCHK crest at the vertex. The rings represent the core values of Courage, Excellence, Collaboration, Innovation, Integrity and Passion, shared by all UOW Global network entities. Four medallions facing different directions just beneath the vertex each bears a moral maxim taken from Confucianism – Propriety, Righteousness, Probity and Sense of Shame – reflecting the traditional principles which the College adheres to.