As the vibrant colours of Spring spread across our campus, it signifies a time for new beginnings, growth and fresh perspectives. This year marks a significant milestone for City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) as we celebrate our 30th anniversary since achieving university status. With a revitalised spirit, we are embarking on a journey guided by our steadfast commitment to our celebration theme “Innovating into the Future”.
Among our many exciting initiatives is the establishment of the CityUHK Academy of Innovation (CAI), which offers innovative academic programmes aimed at fostering deep-tech ventures. These include a PhD by Innovation programme, Master of Science in Venture Creation programme, Graduate Research and Innovation Trek Programme (GRIT) and Overseas Start-up Technology Entrepreneur Programme (STEP), which provide start-up teams with intensive training and potential investment opportunities.
The leading position of the University is upheld and fortified by our remarkable members, many of whom consistently excel both locally and internationally. Notably, School of Creative Media (SCM) alumna Ms Grace Lau Mo-sheung took the title in Female Kata in the Karate 1 (K1) Premier League in Antalya, Turkey, on 17 March, after securing the world's number one ranking in female kata by the World Karate Federation in early 2024.
Recently, another eminent SCM alumnus, Mr Nick Cheuk Yick-him, won the Best New Director at the 17th Asian Film Awards with his feature film Time Still Turns the Pages, after clinching the Best New Director Award at the 60th Golden Horse Awards in 2023. Their success is a testament to their determination and perseverance in pursuing excellence, which fully embodies the spirit of CityU Heroes.
Academically, our world-class faculties have received prestigious awards for their outstanding research. For example, Professor Kwok Chun-kit was honoured with the RNA Society Early-Career Research Award 2024, the first Hong Kong scientist awarded in the category. In addition, a research team led by Professor Wang Cheng developed a world-leading microwave photonic chip that will have profound impact in the field.
Being ranked “Most International University in the World 2024” by Times Higher Education (THE) solidified our position as a global frontrunner in higher education. Congratulations to all University members for your well-deserved accolades.
Engagement and collaboration with the community is at the heart of the University’s mission. On 21 January, over 800 members of the CityUHK community, including alumni, students and staff, united in high spirits at the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon. Our runners again ran with students with special education needs to promote social inclusion.
In addition, we also welcomed delegations from esteemed institutions, such as Nanjing University, Renmin University of China, and the Department of Education and Department of Science and Technology of Guangdong Province, fostering valuable exchange and cooperation.
The development of the campus of CityUHK (Dongguan) is advancing swiftly, creating a vibrant international ambience. Recently, I led a delegation consisted of business and industry leaders to visit the phase one campus in Dongguan. They were very impressed by the development and expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations.
Lastly, I am delighted to announce the introduction of CityUHK Ice Cream, made with fresh milk produced at the University Farm in Lam Tsuen, Tai Po – a training centre for students in our Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine programme. The unique CityUHK ice cream and milk are now available on campus.
As Easter approaches, I wish you and your loved ones a joyous and rejuvenating celebration. Stay connected, and carry the spirit of CityUHK as we forge ahead together.
Professor Freddy Boey
President and University Distinguished Professor
