The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has received a generous donation from the Hong Kong Chiu Chow Chamber of Commerce (The Chamber) to support the University’s academic development and research innovation. The donation will also establish a scholarship scheme to encourage HKUST students to explore their potential beyond academics, while promoting exchange of Chinese culture and technology.
In recognition of the Chamber’s steadfast support, a hub for scholarly and cultural exchange within HKUST’s Academic Building has been named the Hong Kong Chiu Chow Chamber of Commerce Scholar Nexus. This initiative underscores the importance of university-industry collaboration in cultivating future leaders and marks a new chapter in their ongoing partnership.
The naming ceremony was held on June 30, 2026, at HKUST’s Clear Water Bay campus. HKUST representatives, including Prof. Nancy IP, President; Prof. Anthony WU Ting-Yuk, HKUST Council Member, Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Chiu Chow Community Organizations and Honorary Chairman of the Hong Kong Chiu Chow Chamber of Commerce; Prof. Charles NG Wang-Wai, Vice-President for Institutional Advancement presented a souvenir to the representatives from the Chamber, including Dr. Winnie KO Pui-Shuen, President; Mr. WONG Shu-Yui, Mr. CHONG Hok-Shan, Dr. MA Kai-Cheung and Mr. HUI Hok-Chee, Honorary Life President. They were then joined by Prof. GUO Yike, HKUST Provost; Ir Prof. John KWONG, HKUST Vice-President for Development, as well as the donors and their delegates from the Chamber to unveil the acknowledgement plaque.
Dr. Winnie Ko Pui-Shuen said, “This donation not only advances HKUST’s educational development, but also underscores the Hong Kong Chiu Chow Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to social responsibility and its dedication to supporting technology education. Furthermore, it represents a significant step toward fostering closer industry-academia collaboration in the AI era.
This heartfelt pledge embodies the century-old Chamber’s enduring dedication to fostering education, nurturing talent, and advancing scientific innovation. It carries our hopes and expectations for young students to pursue their aspirations and for the technology sector to thrive. The naming of the ‘Hong Kong Chiu Chow Chamber of Commerce Scholar Nexus’ marks a new milestone in the Chamber’s partnership with HKUST. We are privileged to contribute to the development of this world‑class university and look forward to strengthening our ties with HKUST. Together, we aspire to pioneer a new model of collaboration, demonstrating how a well-established business chamber and a leading university can collaborate seamlessly to drive social progress.”
President Nancy Ip remarked, “The Hong Kong Chiu Chow Chamber of Commerce, guided by the enduring principles of ‘love for the country, love for Hong Kong and love for hometown’ and an unwavering pursuit of excellence, shares a common ethos with HKUST in ‘advancing knowledge for the benefit of society and striving for excellence’. This generous donation will provide fresh impetus to the University’s continued quest for excellence. The Scholar Nexus embodies the shared vision of the Chamber and HKUST in nurturing future leaders and giving back to society. Not only will it become a vibrant hub for faculty and student interaction and a venue for academic events, but it will also serve as a dynamic platform where culture and technology intersect and thrive.
Looking ahead, HKUST remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation and dedication to research, actively advancing cutting-edge interdisciplinary education and pursuing new frontiers in scientific discovery. In close partnership with the Chamber, the University will continue to make meaningful contributions to the prosperity and progress of Hong Kong and the nation as a whole.”
The Chamber has long been committed to public welfare, charitable endeavors, and the promotion of cultural heritage. Over the years, it has forged a deep and thriving relationship with HKUST, supporting the University’s growth through generous donations.
The Chamber’s latest contribution will support HKUST’s overall development, strengthen its pursuit of academic excellence and research innovation, as well as set up the Hong Kong Chiu Chow Chamber of Commerce Wong Shu Yui Scholarship (The Scholarship) and funding Chinese culture and technology exchange initiatives.
Launching in the 2026/2027 academic year, the Scholarship will recognize undergraduates with outstanding leadership, a strong commitment to social service, and exceptional achievement in arts, sports, or innovation. In addition, HKUST will organize seminars, exhibitions, workshops, and study visits to deepen faculty and students’ understanding of Chinese culture and technological advancement, fostering an appreciation for traditional culture while promoting academic and technological exchange.
The 18 donors from the Chamber of this donation include: Honorary Life Presidents Mr. WONG Shu-Yui, Mr. CHONG Hok-Shan, Dr. MA Kai-Cheung and Mr. HUI Hok-Chee; President Dr. Winnie KO Pui-Shuen; Vice-Presidents Mr. CHAN Keung, Dr. Allen SHI Lop-Tak, Mr. Kenneth CHAN Kin-Nin, Mr. Marshall HUI Ping-Chuen, Mr. Patrick MA Ching-Hang and Mr. Thomas LAU Luen-Hung; Honorary Advisor Ms. WONG Kin-Yu; Managing Directors Ms. Barbara CHAN Wei-Ting and Mr. LAM Hak-Lun; Director Mr. CHONG Sing-Kai; Honorary Advisors Dr. TSOI Wing-Sing and Mr. ZHAO Li-Sheng; as well as Director Mr. Andre LIN Lan-Ho.
