HKUST Annual Report 2023-2024

5 HKUST Annual Report 2023-2024 encouraged by the support of HKSAR Chief Executive the Honourable John LEE Ka-Chiu for establishing a third medical school, and we are all set to submit a detailed proposal on it over the next few months, taking into consideration of the 10 key parameters as announced by the Task Group on NewMedical School. HKUST envisions training future-ready doctors who are tech-savvy in integrating innovations with clinical skills as new technologies revolutionize clinical investigations and patient care. We are dedicated to pursuing an innovative strategic position that complements the two existing medical schools and serves the city’s evolving healthcare needs, while aligning with Hong Kong’s goal as an international hub for health and medical innovation. Last but not least, I am grateful for the generous and excellent support from the national and HKSAR governments and the community over the past year. Our students were greatly inspired by the visit and opportunity to interact with our astronauts and the China Manned Space delegation, learning astronauts’ patriotism, their spaceflight experience and the creative innovations of China’s space station. Together with our launch of Hong Kong’s first high-resolution optical satellite in the higher education sector in August 2023, our University will continue to leverage our strengths to contribute to the field of aerospace technology. In addition, exchanges with various Chinese government and university delegations, including a visit from Mr. SUN Zhiyang, Mayor of the Guangzhou Municipal Government, strengthen and open up collaborations and partnerships with the Greater Bay Area and beyond. To enrich the University’s support network and bolster our fundraising capabilities to sustain HKUST’s future growth, the Council approved the setting up of the HKUST Foundation. Helmed by its Board of Governors under the able leadership of former Council member Prof. Albert IP Yuk-Keung, the Foundation will seek to recognize donors and supporters with continuous contributions. In closing, working together in the 1-HKUST spirit, I thank all my colleagues on the University Council and its various Committees for their enthusiastic support and wise counsel during the past year. Chairman, University Council Prof. Harry SHUM Heung-Yeung BBS