(Hong Kong, 11 November 2013) The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has received a HK$20 million donation from the Li Ka Shing Foundation to support University initiatives to nurture globally aware and creative young leaders, including international research opportunities, entrepreneurship, community engagement, and other development activities.
Dr Li Ka-shing and the Li Ka Shing Foundation have been long-standing and visionary supporters of education and technology and have made significant contributions to advance these two areas in both Hong Kong and Mainland China. Dr Li and the Foundation recently sponsored a joint venture between Technion – Israel Institute of Technology and Shantou University to open the Technion Guangdong Institute of Technology. The Institute is seeking to become a hi-tech powerhouse and to drive forward development in Guangdong Province. It also aims to strengthen hi-tech innovation links between China and the world.
Dr Li said: “The integration of capabilities to propel innovation and the ability to mix technological knowledge to solving complex real world problems is now a prerequisite of a good education – not an expectation.”
The generous donation to HKUST will provide greater opportunities for the University’s students to unlock and realize their potential, build the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation, and drive forward connections between the University and the business sector. HKUST will apply for a Matching Grant from the Hong Kong Government to enable more students to benefit from the donation.
HKUST seeks to nurture innovation and entrepreneurship among students, providing a wide variety of activities for them to engage in, including participation in research programs in leading overseas universities and fostering knowledge of business start-ups to widen their global vision. The University also encourages students to be actively involved in voluntary service in order to contribute to the wider society.
President Prof Tony Chan expressed his gratitude to Dr Li Ka-shing and the Li Ka Shing Foundation for their support for the University. Prof Chan said: “With his far-sighted view, Dr Li has been a staunch supporter of education and scientific development. The generous support of the Foundation will bring valuable learning opportunities for HKUST students, greatly helping the University to encourage the spirit of innovation and nurture next-generation leaders who can contribute to our fast-paced world through their global vision and awareness.”