HKUST Annual Report 2024-2025

10 HKUST ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25 Our global standing was consistently recognized, as reflected in the QS World University Rankings 2026 (No. 44), the QS Asia University Rankings 2026 (No. 6), and the Times Higher Education (THE) Global Employability Rankings 2025, where we ranked 24th globally and maintained our position as No. 1 in Hong Kong. Further affirming our commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, HKUST placed 19th globally in the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, retaining our position as the top institution in Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland for the second consecutive year. To advance our strategic commitment to developing the resources, facilities, and environment required for excellence, I am pleased to announce two senior management appointments: Prof. Charles NG Wang-Wai as Vice-President for Institutional Advancement, effective August 1, 2025, to spearhead fundraising and global partnerships; and Ir. John KWONG Ka-Sing as Vice-President for Development, effective September 26, 2024, to drive campus development. Both bring a wealth of senior leadership experience to these critical roles. This critical initiative supports both the national Healthy China 2030 blueprint and the national vision to become a world-leading education powerhouse by 2035. It aligns specifically with the strategic focus on scientific and technological advancement, as stated in “The Education Power Construction Plan Outline (2024-2035)”. It also strengthens Hong Kong’s role as an international education hub. We aim to admit our first cohort of students in the 2028/29 academic year, initially at our Clear Water Bay campus. In the longer term, leveraging the strategic location in the Northern Metropolis, SMED will foster collaboration across the Greater Bay Area, serving as an academic and research powerhouse to cultivate a forward-thinking healthcare workforce. WORLD-CLASS STANDING As we embark on this foundational journey, our efforts remain firmly aligned with our Strategic Plan 2031, focused on creating lasting impact for Hong Kong and beyond. The momentum for our pioneering endeavors has been powered not only by the approval of our medical school but also by multiple other advances throughout the year.