T
his is my first HKUST Annual Report
, and symbolically it marks the beginning of a transition for this great
university as we begin the world-wide search for our third President.
The founding Council Chairman Sir SY Chung and Founding President Prof Chia-Wei Woo made history in creating a world-
class university in a race against the clock. Our incumbent President Prof Paul Chu has lifted the university to an even loftier
position envied by many and admired by all.
The year also saw Dr John Chan’s completion of his mission as the university’s
Council Chairman, a role he reveled in for six years. He did so with great distinction
and a deep sense of mission, bringing his considerable social wisdom, mental
dexterity and corporate experience to bear on the execution of his duties. He was
an eloquent spokesman for the cause of the university. His tenure is associated
with a critical period in the development of this university. Frankly, I am a little nervous
in stepping into his “considerable” shoes.
In assuming the Council Chairmanship, I took nothing for granted – guided only by
the spirit of relentless pursuit of a new level of excellence and a jealous protection
of our position as the region’s leading university of science and technology. I make
no assumption that the high reputation we have built up over the last 17 years will
simply self perpetuate. The responsibility on our shoulder is as heavy as the global
recognition is great.
As we face another pivotal change of leadership, we are reminded of the process
of renewal that guides the development of great institutions. In the past year, several
members of the university who have figured prominently in its development have
moved on or will be in the process of doing so.
The passing of Sir Gordon Macwhinnie, a great founding member of this university filled me with sadness. With a deep paternal
affection for HKUST and a proprietary interest in its well-being, Sir Gordon served on many of its key committees, laboring long
and hard to nurture Hong Kong’s first university of science and technology. His love for this university was such that he had been
known to dip into his own pockets to top up the salaries of its staff. In the twilight days of the British administration in Hong
Kong Sir Gordon’s loyalty to this city and its new university did not wane. Indifferent to race and nationality, he only asked to do
his duty well. He will be remembered for this and more.
Another development that gives me a seeping sense of sadness is the looming shadow of President Paul Chu’s pre-announced
departure next summer. President Chu is a global giant of science who has helped give this university prominence in the global
academic community. He, too, is leaving a large footprint on this institution. His inspired stewardship has given HKUST the
impetus to climb higher up the academic ladder. A charismatic figure, adored by students and members of the media alike,
President Chu has won the university presidential popularity stakes hands down in successive years. We owe this approachable
leader a huge debt of gratitude. He is our second-generation leader of the first order.
The university is entering a critical phase in its development. The
“3-3-4”
education reform is in fermentation and under
experimentation. The curriculum requires revamping and the campus calls for considerable expansion and reconfiguration.
At the same time, numerical increase in enrolment must be accompanied by qualitative improvement. It is a job for the
financially resourceful and the educationally creative. Not being either, I am relying heavily on our experienced team and well-oiled
teamwork to pull us through.
This time, with the financial sea storm lapping at our shores, fundraising is a fight against swirling undercurrents. Once again, we
do not merely tread water. Once again, we will summon our courage to do more. The task has become a lot tougher, but my
moods are nevertheless bright and my fighting spirit never stronger. Together, let us take this university to a new height.
HKUST 2007-2008 Annual Report
