The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) today officially launched its 35th anniversary celebrations with a ceremony that brought together government officials, industry leaders, and university community members. Themed "Where Miracles Happen," the event honored the pioneering spirit that has propelled HKUST to achieve remarkable feats since its founding in 1991.
President Prof. Nancy Ip, who joined HKUST in 1993, offered a personal reflection on the university's ascent into a world-class institution. She credited the extraordinary foresight of Founding President Prof. Chia-Wei Woo, who envisioned HKUST as Hong Kong's first research-intensive university. "Long before the Greater Bay Area concept existed, our founders understood that Hong Kong's future was inextricably linked with the region," Ip said. This vision laid the groundwork for HKUST (Guangzhou), established in 2022.
President Ip emphasized that the university's success is measured by its tangible impact on society. She highlighted the establishment of a new School of Medicine as a transformative milestone. "This is a transformative milestone, fulfilling a dream pursued for over three decades," she stated. The school, which will admit its first cohort in 2028, aims to bridge traditional medical curriculum with technology and AI breakthroughs.
Chief Secretary for Administration Mr. Chan Kwok-Ki commended HKUST's profound impact on Hong Kong's development. "Over the past 35 years, HKUST has evolved from a bold new institution into a globally respected university," he said. He noted its strong international rankings, vibrant start-up ecosystem, and diverse global student body. "With strengths spanning artificial intelligence, science, and its planned School of Medicine, HKUST is exceptionally well-positioned to shape the future of innovation and talent development," he added.
Council Chairman Prof. Harry Shum reflected on the university's unique position. "Thirty-five years is a fascinating milestone. In human terms, it is the age of maturity, the point where youthful energy meets seasoned wisdom," he said. He expressed confidence that the future-oriented medical school would play an important role in educating a new generation of scientists and clinicians.
The ceremony showcased HKUST's leadership in technology. A robotic lion dance from the Guangzhou campus and robotic dogs developed by Direct Drive Technology, the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and the Cheng Kar-Shun Robotics Institute carried ceremonial "Miracle Balls" onto the stage. A drone donated by distinguished alumnus Mr. Wang Tao, Founder of DJI, delivered the commemorative "35th Symbol Key." Mr. Wang's donation of two of the latest drone solutions will support exploration of the low-altitude economy.
Since its founding in 1991, HKUST has risen to rank among the world's top 50 universities. The university secured approval from the Ministry of Science and Technology to establish a new State Key Laboratory. In a major national space endeavor, HKUST is developing a multi-functional robot for the Chang'E-8 lunar mission and leading the development of a greenhouse gas detection instrument that will become HKSAR's first payload to China's Tiangong Space Station.
A full year of celebratory activities is planned, including co-hosting the THE Asia Universities Summit with Times Higher Education, an AI Film Festival, and joint celebrations with HKUST (Guangzhou). The university will also host the World University Presidents Forum for the first time in Hong Kong.
