HKUST Shapes the Future of Global Science and Tech at THE Asia Universities Summit 2025
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) demonstrated its leadership in the future of science and technology at the Times Higher Education Asia Universities Summit 2025. Themed "Asia's rise: A transformative journey in science, technology and innovation", hosted by the Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST) from April 22-24, the event brought together prominent figures in academia to explore the evolving landscape of global science and technology.
President Professor Nancy IP joined a high-profile panel featuring representatives from the ASPIRE League, including Tsinghua University, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, and the Institute of Science Tokyo. The panel explored strategies for Asia’s leading universities to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving global science and tech landscape. Prof. Ip highlighted initiatives such as the ASPIRE League Partnership Seed Fund, designed to deepen collaboration among member institutions, and emphasized the importance of cultivating an environment that attracts and retains top talent. She also proposed establishing the ASPIRE Innovation Corridor, a network of specialised hubs to leverage on each unique strength for synergy and research breakthroughs.
HKUST also contributed to another panel discussion on smart cities and urban transformation at the Summit. Professor Hong Lo, Dean of Engineering and Director of the GREAT Smart Cities Institute, engaged in insightful conversations with experts on the pivotal role of higher education institutions in advancing smart city initiatives through interdisciplinary collaboration and resource utilization.
As the Summit 2025 concludes, HKUST will take the torch to host the Asia Universities Summit in April 2026. The upcoming event will be one of the signature events in celebration of HKUST's 35th anniversary, welcoming academic and industry leaders from across Asia to celebrate the impactful achievements in higher education and join hands in shaping a sustainable and innovative future.