The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) warmly welcomed a delegation from the University Grants Committee (UGC) on January 9, 2025. The visit sparked lively discussions among UGC members, HKUST's senior management, faculty, and students, highlighting the university's commitment to creating a dynamic learning environment. During their tour, the delegation explored various innovative teaching facilities on campus, gaining insights into HKUST's latest achievements and aspirations for advancing academic innovation and nurturing future talent.
The UGC delegation, consisting of over 20 UGC members and secretariat staff, including UGC Chairman Mr. Tim LUI and UGC Secretary-General Prof. James TANG, was graciously received by HKUST President Prof. Nancy IP and the senior management team. Throughout the engaging campus tour, Prof. IP guided the group through HKUST's innovative projects and educational facilities, showcasing the university's leadership in academic and research excellence.
As the tour progressed, Prof. ZHANG Xin, HKUST Director of the Aerodynamics and Acoustics Facility (AAF), introduced the university's state-of-the-art low-noise wind tunnel and world-class acoustic testing laboratories. He highlighted the team's significant contributions to the development of the low altitude economy through innovative applications in noise reduction and flight safety assessment and the enhancement of elite athletes' performance. Prof. ZHANG Qian, Acting Head of the Division of Integrative Systems and Design presented the makerspace 'ISDworks!' - a creative environment where student representatives presented their groundbreaking projects to cater for societal and industrial needs.
The delegates then visited the city's largest Liquid Immersion Cooling system at the High-Performance Computing Infrastructural Center (HPCIC), which received funding from UGC. HKUST Vice-President for Research and Development Prof. Tim CHENG and Director of Information Technology & Services Dr. Samuel KWAN highlighted that the system could reduce cooling energy consumption by over 80% while enhancing computing power. HKUST expressed its gratitude to the UGC for its unwavering support in advancing the university as a sustainable campus with growing research capabilities. Notably, HKUST's Data Science and Artificial Intelligence programs are ranked No.1 in Hong Kong and among the world's top 10 in the QS World University Rankings 2024, reflecting the university's excellence in these fields. In line with this strength, HKUST Provost Prof. Yike GUO, together with Prof. Hao CHEN and Prof. Xiaomeng LI introduced several Artificial Intelligence projects focused on the medical field, underscoring the University's vision and commitment to pioneering medical technology.
As a university steadfastly pursuing a net-zero plan, Acting Director of the Sustainability/Net-Zero Office Mr. Marcus LEUNG-SHEA took this opportunity to share the university's vision for establishing a sustainable smart campus as a living lab. The UGC delegates also learned how HKUST supports its students and faculty in their entrepreneurial endeavors, empowering them to transform ideas into impactful ventures.
In addition to site visits, the delegation engaged in dynamic discussions with a diverse group of professors, academic staff, and students from various departments, offering them a comprehensive glimpse into HKUST's vibrant student community and stimulating learning environment. This not only highlighted HKUST's progress but also ignited meaningful dialogue about the future of higher education in Hong Kong, positioning the university as a pivotal player in shaping the educational landscape.
About The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) (https://hkust.edu.hk/) is a world-class university committed to innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. Our holistic and interdisciplinary pedagogy approach is recognized globally. HKUST placed 3rd in the Times Higher Education's Young University Rankings 2024, 19th Worldwide and No.1 in Hong Kong in Times Higher Education's impact Rankings. Twelve of HKUST's subjects were ranked among the world's top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024. Of these, "Data Science and Artificial Intelligence" ranked first in Hong Kong and 10th in the world. Our graduates are highly competitive, consistently placing among the world's top 30 most sought-after employees. Our research and entrepreneurship endeavors are also innovative and impactful. Over 80% of our work was rated "Internationally excellent" or "world leading" in the latest Research Assessment Exercise 2020 of Hong Kong's University Grants Committee. As of November 2024, HKUST members have founded 1,800 active start-ups, including 10 Unicorns and 16 exits (IPO or M&A).
