City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) proudly celebrated its 30th anniversary on 24 November with a grand banquet attended by stakeholders, friends, staff, students and alumni. This milestone event also marked the 10th anniversary of the CityUHK Foundation. Over 350 esteemed guests gathered to share in the joy of the University's remarkable journey and to learn about its latest achievements.

The banquet was graced by distinguished officiating guests, including the Hon Chan Kwok-ki, Chief Secretary for Administration of the HKSAR Government; Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government; Ir Dr the Hon Lo Wai-kwok, Member of the Legislative Council of the HKSAR; Mr Almas Seitakynov, Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Hong Kong and Macao; Mr Tim Lui, Chairman of the University Grants Committee; Professor James Tang, Secretary-General of the University Grants Committee; Dr Chung Shui-ming, Pro-Chancellor of CityUHK; Mr Lester Garson Huang, Chairman of the Council of CityUHK; and Professor Freddy Boey, President and University Distinguished Professor of CityUHK.

Dr Chung highlighted CityUHK's pioneering achievements in his opening remarks. “We have led the way in cutting-edge research in technology, environmental science and global business, providing solutions to some of the world's most pressing challenges,” he stated.

In a heartfelt pre-recorded congratulatory message, Mr John Lee Ka-chiu, Chief Executive of the HKSAR and Chancellor of CityUHK, reaffirmed the University’s role as a beacon of higher learning and innovation over the past three decades. Mr Lee said that CityUHK has undergone a significant transformation, evolving into a leading global institution renowned for its world-class research and education.

Mr Huang, who will soon step down as Chairman of the Council, expressed his immense pride in being part of the CityUHK community. “CityUHK has emerged as a leading global university through groundbreaking research, innovative teaching methods and a steadfast commitment to social responsibility. Our students have excelled in international competitions, and our faculty's research has made a significant global impact,” he said.

Jointly officiated the time capsule ceremony at the banquet were Mr Chan, Dr Chung, Mr Huang, President Boey, Dr Yeung Kin-man, Honorary Advisor for 30th Anniversary and Honorary Chairperson of the CityUHK Foundation Board of Governors, Professor Herman Hu Shao-ming, Honorary Advisor for 30th Anniversary Celebration and Co-Chairperson of the CityUHK Foundation Board of Governors, Dr Harry Banga, Honorary Advisor for 30th Anniversary Celebration, and Professor Chan Chi-hou, Chairperson of the 30th Anniversary Organising Committee. They placed items of special significance to CityUHK into the time capsule, symbolising CityUHK's commitment to excellence in education and research, and to innovating into the future.

The banquet also celebrated the 10th anniversary of the CityUHK Foundation, reviewing the remarkable achievements of the Foundation in promoting the University's development. To commemorate its 30th anniversary, CityUHK launched the “CityUHK Endowment Campaign” this year, inviting supporters and alumni to set up an individual endowment fund under the campaign. These funds provide sustainable resources for the University’s development and create a more prosperous future. Since its inception, 35 individual endowment funds have been established under the campaign.

 

 

The University is thrilled to announce that China Hongqiao Group Limited has pledged HK$70 million to support CityUHK's research initiatives and establish an individual endowment fund for community engagement projects through the “CityUHK Endowment Campaign”. Mr Huang and President Boey presented a certificate of the new Honorary Patron of the CityUHK Foundation to Ms Zhang Linlin, wife of the Chairman and CEO of China Hongqiao Group Limited at the banquet.

In his closing remarks, President Freddy Boey thanked all CityUHK donors for their steadfast support. He also expressed his deep gratitude for Mr Huang’s visionary leadership and unwavering dedication since 2018. “CityUHK's recent success is a testament to our community's dedication and vision,” he said. “Together, we will continue to shape a future filled with promise and potential. Your commitment to our mission helps drive us forward.”