The UK Architects Registration Board (ARB) and the Hong Kong Institute of Architects (HKIA) have signed a memorandum of understanding(MoU) for recognition of qualifications, enhancing UK-Hong Kong collaboration
The UK ARB and HKIA have signed a MoU for mutual recognition of architectural qualifications between the two countries, strengthening UK-Hong Kong collaboration.
The MoU recognises both countries high standards in education, need for public protection, and allows architects from either country more opportunities to work in the other.
Both organisations will recognise the other’s qualifications
The MoU means that those who hold ARB-accredited Part 1 and Part 2 will be fully recognised in Hong Kong, and those with only a Part 1 will only need to complete a HKIA-accredited masters and HKIA/ARBHK Professional Assessment to join the Hong Kong register.
Likewise, those with a HKIA-accredited degree and masters degree will receive full recognition from the ARB, and will only need to complete the ARB-accredited Part 3 qualification to join the UK register.
UK-Hong Kong collaboration will drive architecture employment for both countries
Hugh Simpson, chief executive and registrar of the Architects Registration Board, said: “I am excited to see the new educational opportunities that this memorandum of understanding will open up for students and those on the journey to joining our respective Registers. It will allow tomorrow’s architects to more easily develop their knowledge and skills across continents, while also allowing today’s architects to more easily move between and work in the UK and Hong Kong. In addition, it will help to uphold standards and it offers new assurances for public safety.”
Benny Chan, president of the Hong Kong Institute of Architects, said: “Today marks a significant milestone as we sign the MoU on mutual recognition of architectural academic qualifications between HKIA and ARB UK. This agreement is a testament to our long term shared commitment to fostering professional excellence, paving the way for greater collaboration and mobility between Hong Kong and the UK, and shaping a brighter future for architects in both jurisdictions.”
