CHAIRMAN’S FOREWORD 5 4 HKUST Annual Report 2020-2021 CHAIRMAN’S FOREWORD HKUST’s past achievements demonstrated the University’s determination to spearhead in research breakthrough and aptitude to contribute to the world with innovative ideas. As the old Chinese saying goes, a person is established at the age of thirty（三十而立）. This is truly a momentous occasion for us to refresh our minds and set for an even more promising future. The implementation of a robust governance framework is undoubtedly one of the key success factors of the University’s remarkable achievements over the years. Being the supreme governing body of HKUST, the Council has taken significant steps to consolidate its agenda to further enhance university governance. Through Council’s steering of the University’s overall strategic directions, HKUST has successfully achieved various development objectives and long-term goals. Looking ahead, the University’s Strategic Plan 20212028, under the Council’s direction, would demonstrate how HKUST’s potential could be fully realized along with an array of far-sighted strategies. With the professional expertise of our Members, the Council will continue to oversee the Management’s performance, as well as its own effectiveness based on international governance standards. As the University marches toward its fourth decade, we endeavor to create an even greater impact in the region. The imminent opening of HKUST(Guangzhou) will further exemplify the University’s determination to seize new growth opportunities presented in the Greater Bay Area, with renewed approaches to education, research, and knowledge transfer. Under the Council’s counsel, the governance standards of this new operation are expected to be fully aligned with that of the Clear Water Bay campus. As HKUST approaches its 30th Anniversary, it is an opportune time for us to appraise the work that we have done and look far for future opportunities. It is not easy for a young university like us to come this far on our journey to excellence. In just three decades, HKUST has become a highly regarded university globally, thanks to the vision, hard work and support of our founding fathers, all our Council and Court Members, partners and friends. After years of hard work in overseeing all the important phases of its planning and construction life cycle, the Council is thrilled to witness the inauguration of the exquisitely designed Shaw Auditorium in Fall 2021. The newly added facility not only marks another important milestone in the University’s history, but also creates an ideal venue for our next generation, both in fostering their whole-person development and in enriching their university experience. This new landmark will certainly serve as a cultural hub for further promoting the “East-meets-West” conceptions at HKUST, and a hot spot for interactions between us and the wider community. The University’s success over the years is a collective effort of all Members of our community. In another year that saw the University turning challenges into opportunities, I wish to give my heartfelt appreciation to my fellow Council and Court Members, staff, students and alumni, who have shown their HKUST spirit and are determined to stride ahead together despite all the external challenges. I would also like to thank our donors and friends, for supporting us in turning our dreams into reality. Being one of the leading young universities in the world, HKUST would continue to initiate, to impact and to lead. As we enter a new chapter in our history, we pledge ourselves that HKUST would bring the world a more forthcoming future with more advanced scientific and technological innovations in the coming decade, and beyond. Chairman, University Council Mr. Andrew LIAO Cheung-Sing GBS, SBS, SC, JP
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzkwMzc=