HKUST Annual Report 2024-2025

43 C O N N E C T I N G P E O P L E A N D C O M M U N I T I E S VISIONARY PARTNERSHIP FOR SOCIETAL PROGRESS Institutional partnerships saw significant advancement in 2024–25 with the landmark establishment of the HKUST Foundation. HKUST has enjoyed long and solid support from community donors and partners in many fields over the years. With the official launch of the Foundation, a vital body uniting our supporters is now actively taking shape to substantially enhance the University’s capacity to deliver transformative breakthroughs and develop pioneering talent for decades to come. Celebrating this new chapter, more than 200 influential leaders from academia, industry, and philanthropy attended the HKUST Foundation Inaugural Gala Dinner in May 2025. The event raised over HK$35 million to support future innovation and talent development, marking a pivotal moment for strengthening existing alliances and forging new partnerships. Earlier in February 2025, the Donor Appreciation Reception and Chinese New Year Celebration 2025 brought together 120 esteemed guests at the Shaw Auditorium, including HKUST donors, alumni, and supporters. The Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies also promoted cultural innovation by co-costing the second “Four Seas Cup” Hong Kong International University Student WeiQi Competition, fostering international exchange. In Fall 2024–25, it launched Hong Kong’s first credit-bearing course on WeiQi and Chinese culture, blending tradition with modern academic exploration. In a celebration of traditional visual arts, the HKUST Library held a special exhibition of Chinese calligraphy by entrepreneur-artist Dr. SZE Chi-Ching, honoring his 90th birthday, and facilitating cultural exchange. In the realm of music, the University hosted numerous concerts that expanded creative boundaries for members of the University and the public. In October 2024, world-renowned pipa player WU Man and the talented members of the Aga Khan Master Musicians performed at the Shaw Auditorium, presenting an exhilarating fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds from China, Europe, the Middle East and North Africa to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China. In addition, the University’s Cosmopolis Festival offered free discussions, workshops, and concerts, featuring talents such as top South Africa jazz percussionist Tlale MAKHENE, Finnish pianist, conductor and composer Olli MUSTONEN, and Australian multi-instrumentalist Glen LLOYD, who use performance art to showcase the potential of emerging technologies.