CUHK invites world-renowned mathematician to establish HK academy

Eunice Lam

The Chinese University has invited globally renowned mathematician Yau Shing-tung to establish an academy in Hong Kong, lawmaker Bill Tang Ka-piu revealed.

Tang also urged the government to provide funding support during a Legislative Council meeting yesterday.

He emphasized the importance of attracting top academics from both the mainland and overseas.

Tang, who is a member of CUHK's governing council, noted that while the university has invited Yau, pictured - former professor emeritus at Harvard University and a 1982 Fields Medal laureate - to set up the academy, the proposal has not received financial backing from the government.

"Although Hong Kong's finances are very tight now, it is hoped that the SAR government can allocate some funds to support cutting-edge scientists coming to Hong Kong," Tang said.

He said that, despite having five local universities ranked among the top 100 globally, the city lags in developing an innovative industry.

Referring to last year's Global Innovation Index, Tang said Hong Kong ranked 17th, while Israel ranked 14th despite having no universities in the top 100.

Secretary for Education Christine Choi Yuk-lin said that the Research Grants Council under the University Grants Committee had consistently encouraged local institutions to engage in interdisciplinary research.