Although I only stepped into the role of Pro-chancellor in November 2023, this honour capped many years of involvement with the University. Indeed, I first became a member of the University Council as far back as 2003. I was appointed Treasurer in 2004, and later served as Chairman from 2009 until 2016. I have been privileged to witness the University's remarkable growth up-close for over 20 years. It has been a thrilling journey, participating in this institution's rapid transformation. Now, in the 35th year since HKMU's foundation, we have much to celebrate and much to look forward to.
A lot of changes have taken place over the years, but the heart of our work has always been focused on real societal needs and the betterment of Hong Kong. For example, when the Government called for the expansion of tertiary education back in 2001, we responded by offering full-time programmes. Most recently, when the Government called for the development of universities of applied sciences (UASs), we put our name forward and became the very first UAS in the city. In all of these cases, we have proven the value of the practically oriented, professional university education offered by HKMU.
When I retired from the Council in 2016, I remained connected with the University as a member of the University Court as well as the Sponsorship and Development Fund Committee. Perhaps my most memorable experience of these years was being involved in the expansion of the infrastructure and facilities of our University, most of which, if not all, have been completed on time and within budget, drawing on great generosity and exceptional planning.
Having seen just how effectively the University can get major projects off the ground once resources are available, I was delighted to witness the establishment of the HKMU Foundation in September 2023. This important fundraising platform is essential as we have not only embarked on another ambitious campus development project, but are also exploring the possibility of expansion in other parts of town. I am very optimistic that, under the leadership of its Chairman Dr Peter Lee Kwok-wah and with the support of many long-term partners and friends, the HKMU Foundation will generate even more support for our University's ambitious long-term plans.
The opportunities for our future growth do not just lie in this city. As Hong Kong increasingly looks to integrate more with the Greater Bay Area (GBA), we expect to embark on new collaborations with GBA corporations, universities and research institutes that are working in related areas. At the same time, we are looking internationally for partners in key areas. Our goal in all these outreach efforts is to significantly expand the impact we make regionally and internationally in terms of our research and knowledge transfer activities, as well as to expand the horizons of our staff and students alike.
We have set the bar high for our University, and achieving our ambitious goals will take much effort. But we have the determination and the people to do this. I especially welcome the reappointment of our President Prof. Paul Lam Kwan-sing for a further four-year term, along with the new management team members following a recent reorganisation. Their leadership will, I am sure, take HKMU to new heights.
I am very aware of the depth of collaboration that goes to make up a successful university. With this in mind, I must thank my predecessor, Dr the Honourable Charles Lee Yeh-kwong for all that he gave in the service of our University during his tenure from 2013 to 2023. Finally, let me thank all members of the Court, Council and HKMU management for their efforts to drive the University forward over the past year; and indeed, the entire HKMU community for showing the world the value of this unique institution.
