The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is celebrating the first anniversary of Karson Choi College, a leadership incubator made possible by a HK$100 million donation from entrepreneur and philanthropist Karson Choi Ka-tsan.
The residential college has already hosted two landmark events that embody its mission to merge cutting-edge technology with social responsibility.
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In 2022, HKU received a donation of HK$100 million from Choi to establish the college, which is dedicated to cultivating a new generation of leaders with both technological vision and social responsibility guided by the core values of "innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship."
In addition to founding innovative enterprises such as Qianfan Technology and Shanghe Tech, Choi has also facilitated the establishment of the "Hong Kong Artificial Intelligence Educational Base" in late 2024, the first tertiary collaboration with HKU. Moreover, Shanghe Tech partnered with HKU to set up the "Low Altitude Economy Joint Laboratory," reinforcing Hong Kong's position as an international innovation and technology hub.
College offers 300 places
for undergraduates
The college commenced operations in September 2023 as one of the four residential colleges at Jockey Club Student Village IV, providing 300 places for local and international undergraduates. Equipped with a college hall, multi-purpose activity rooms, and outdoor spaces, the college regularly hosts high table dinners, innovation forums, academic lectures and workshops to nurture globally minded innovators.
Since its inception, the college has celebrated two pivotal moments within one year: the Inaugural High Table Dinner was held on November 15, 2024 at HKU's iconic Loke Yew Hall, marking the college's grand debut, and the Dedication Ceremony took place at the college hall, symbolizing its official launch, on March 26 this year.
The two events not only showcased the college's growth but also embodied its ethos of cross-disciplinary dialogue and innovative practice. The Inaugural High Table Dinner brought together leaders for a thought-provoking discussion, while the Dedication Ceremony set a visionary direction for the college's future.
Inaugural High Table Dinner: star-studded cross-sector dialogue
The dinner was attended by benefactor Choi and wife Irene Choi, international star Donnie Yen Chi-tan and wife Cissy Wang, HKU president and vice chancellor Zhang Xiang, and professor Ivan Hung Fan-ngai, alongside over 300 students and HKU community members.
Zhang highlighted the significance of residential education. "A residential college is more than just accommodation -- it is a community where ideas collide, friendships form and leaders emerge. We look forward to witnessing even greater collaboration and innovation here," he said.
Choi shared his founding vision, saying: "My hope is to provide young people with more opportunities to learn and explore, making the boundless possibilities of technology accessible to all."
The evening's highlight was Yen's candid dialogue with students, where he discussed personal breakthroughs and artistic cultivation in response to their questions.
Dedication Ceremony celebrates legacy of innovation
HKU held the ceremony to express gratitude for Choi's generous donation. The event brought together Choi, Independent Commission Against Corruption Commissioner Woo Ying-ming, Zhang, Hung and over 300 distinguished guests and students.
In his speech, Choi inspired students and told them this is their time to shine. "Question the 'usual way' of doing things. Don't be afraid to fail. Use your creativity to solve real problems, and let your entrepreneurial spirit turn those solutions into something that matters," he said.
Zhang expressed heartfelt appreciation: "Your gift is an investment in the dreams of our students, and the future of innovation. For your trust in HKU's mission, and your faith in these young minds, we thank you."
Following the ceremony, a high table dinner was held with Woo as the distinguished keynote speaker.
Drawing from his experiences as an HKU alumnus and a former commissioner of the Correctional Services Department, Woo shared invaluable insights into beliefs and values of future leaders. Addressing the students, he emphasized: "As a leader, you must put people first. Do take a broader perspective - that beyond yourself, there are others, society, and a greater purpose. Always consider their needs and interests."
The evening ended on an inspiring note by Woo, highlighting the vital role of education in developing leaders who are guided by wisdom and moral courage.
