Organizing for Impact: Best Practices from Hong Kong at the International Economics Olympiad
Hong Kong's Experience
In the world of academic competitions, the International Economics Olympiad (IEO) stands out for its challenging blend of economic theory, practical case-solving, and global networking. Hosting such an event is a monumental task, yet the Hong Kong team managed to execute it with efficiency and creativity.
To explore what made the Hong Kong experience so successful, we interviewed Philip Kwan, National Coordinator for IEO in Hong Kong and Head of the Steering Committee for IEO 2024 Hong Kong. Philip shared valuable insights and best practices that can inspire other countries and organizers planning their own Olympiads.
To explore what made the Hong Kong experience so successful, we interviewed Philip Kwan, National Coordinator for IEO in Hong Kong and Head of the Steering Committee for IEO 2024 Hong Kong. Philip shared valuable insights and best practices that can inspire other countries and organizers planning their own Olympiads.
Philip Kwan
IEO Team Leader and National Coordinator, Hong Kong
Leveraging Local Advantages
Hong Kong's unique status — a small city with an international outlook — offered both opportunities and challenges. As Philip explained, Economics is a very popular subject in high schools in Hong Kong so they had an advantage compared to some countries where it is not taught. The team also smartly used existing resources.
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We had a secondary school in Hong Kong, which meant free premises: exam halls, classrooms, and playgrounds. This saved significant costs.
Based on this experience, Philip recommends identifying and maximising local advantages, such as free or low-cost venues, existing subject popularity, and public infrastructure.
Creative Financial Planning and Partnerships
Financial feasibility was one of the first concerns. The Hong Kong team used a blended approach:
- School resources: Venues and volunteers were provided through the local secondary school and alumni network.
- Personal connections: Philip’s partner leveraged personal relationships to secure private donations.
- Government and academic endorsements: While direct government funding was limited, official endorsements added credibility and helped attract sponsors.
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Having endorsements from government agencies and universities made it easier to engage partners and donors.
Philip advises against depending exclusively on government funding. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of building a robust network of endorsements and leveraging personal relationships to secure a diverse range of support.
Navigating Cultural and Organizational Challenges
Organizing an event in a school setting required careful negotiation of safety and administrative protocols:
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We had to balance the objectives of the IEO with the intentions of the resource owners. Schools prioritize safety and must follow strict regulations.
The hierarchical nature of the school system also shaped decision-making:
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We had to report decisions to the big boss and respect the authority to maintain trust.
Hence, Philip highlights the importance of understanding and respecting local organizational cultures, especially when using institutional resources. One should communicate clearly and be prepared to negotiate solutions that align with both the event’s needs and institutional constraints.
Efficient and Scalable Competition Design
The Hong Kong team’s approach to running the national competition was a model of efficiency:
- Half-day format: Multiple-choice economics test graded by computer; business case submitted and graded in parallel.
- Streamlined team: Core organizing staff of just three teachers, supported by volunteers and alumni.
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Efficiency is key. We finish everything in half a day and present prizes immediately. Our business case is written and submitted beforehand — no need to listen to 100 presentations.
Philip’s advice here is to simplify where possible: e.g. use automated grading and written submissions to save time and resources.
Building a Supportive Community
Similar to our other interviewees, Philip recognizes the alumni community as a vital resource for organizing new competitions. He underscores the significance of investing in this community to enhance alumni engagement and cultivate a collaborative spirit among all stakeholders. Thus, Hong Kong team alumni contribute to training new participants and help during events. They also organize reunions and keep in touch.
Maintaining a positive, inclusive atmosphere is a priority for Philip.
Maintaining a positive, inclusive atmosphere is a priority for Philip.
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Stay positive. Everyone involved wants the event to be a success—even if they have different perspectives.
Final Advice: Start Simple and Communicate Well
Philip’s overarching advice for new and developing national competitions is to focus on the efficiency of the initial event.
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Streamline everything. Cut unnecessary steps. If you grow the competition later, you can add more. But for the first time, efficiency is crucial.
Another practical advice is to have someone check emails daily as most questions and decisions happen online — quick responses make a big difference to the audience.
Conclusion
The Hong Kong IEO 2024 stands as a shining example of what’s possible with thoughtful planning, creative resource use, and a supportive community. By sharing their experience, Philip Kwan and his team offer a practical roadmap for others looking to elevate their own competitions.
Their success reminds us that great events aren’t just about big budgets — they’re about smart choices, strong networks, and a spirit of collaboration.
Their success reminds us that great events aren’t just about big budgets — they’re about smart choices, strong networks, and a spirit of collaboration.
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