Scores Protest Against PolyU Students' Punishment

Over a hundred people attended a rally at the Polytechnic University on Thursday evening, to protest against the punishment of four students over a clash with school officials last October.

The incident happened after a student notice board known as “democracy wall” was covered up following the appearance of posters supporting Hong Kong independence.

A group of about 10 students went to the school management offices to discuss the notice board problem with senior staff. The school says the students were unruly and prevented staff from leaving.

Graduate student Gerald Ho was expelled last Friday following a meeting of the university's disciplinary committee, former student union leader Lam Wing-hang was suspended for a year, while two other students were ordered to do community service.

The protesters said their punishment should be rescinded, and the school should also review its disciplinary procedures.

The Polytechnic University said its disciplinary committee's decision had nothing to do with freedom of speech.

It said students have to express their opinions in a peaceful and rational manner.

It added it is committed to nurturing good citizens, and attaches great importance to the conduct and behaviour of its students, and will not tolerate any unruly behaviour on campus.