The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) received a $20 million donation for the university's development from Dr Chow Yei Ching, GBS, Chairman of Chevalier International Holdings Limited. In appreciation of Dr Chow's generosity, the University has named the Learning Commons in the Library as "Chevalier Learning Commons" at an earlier ceremony.
As a world-class research university dedicated to excellence and innovation in education and research, HKUST has been proactive in strengthening its teaching and research facilities and driving internationalization, so as to create a stimulating environment necessary for inspiring creativity and nurturing future world leaders.
Prof Tony F Chan, President of HKUST said, "Dr Chow Yei Ching was long known for his philanthropy and staunch support for education. For a great number of years, Dr Chow and his family have been carrying on this noble philanthropic tradition, making significant contributions to HKUST and giving valuable advice and support for its development. The concept and design of Learning Commons transcends that of a traditional library: its multi-purpose design and exceptionally long service hours cater for 21st century teaching and learning needs and help students learn, conduct research and self-learn in an interactive environment. It is an all-inclusive hub with multiple functions which enables reading and use of multimedia."
Dr Chow Yei Ching has contributed to a wide array of causes in education, culture and sports and other community programs. Since 1993, Dr Chow has been supporting the development of HKUST through sponsoring a great variety of key education and research initiatives. Dr Chow said, "I am honored to contribute to this meaningful education initiative for HKUST students. Young people are future leaders and important assets of the society. A well-facilitated university environment will provide an enhanced platform to effectively nurture our young talents. Through our sponsorship, we hope the 'Learning Commons' where our support is laid, will foster a good knowledge exchange among students, which then benefits our society in the end. In the future, we will continue to support meaningful causes for the betterment of education and the young people. We are also glad to collaborate with HKUST which committed to and has made outstanding academic contribution towards achieving a higher standard of tertiary education in Hong Kong."
Among the guests at the ceremony were Dr Chow Yei Ching, Mr Oscar Chow, HKUST Court and Council member and Executive Director of Chevalier International Holdings Limited, Prof Tony F Chan, HKUST President, Prof Wei Shyy, HKUST Provost, Dr Eden Y Woon, HKUST Vice-President, Ms Diana Chan, University Librarian and Mr Ivan Tam, Deputy Managing Director of Chevalier International Holdings Limited and others.
To tie in with the 3-3-4 transformation and facilitate 21st century learning, HKUST has specially set up the Learning Commons within the Library. With a floor area of 1,800 square meters, the Learning Commons is divided into four zones, namely Creative Media Zone, E-Learning Zone, Study Zone and Refreshment Zone. Equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, it intends to become a dynamic site for intellectual exchanges, a breeding ground for creativity and an inspiring teaching and learning environment.
For media enquiries, please feel free to contact :
Mavis Wong
Tel: 2358 6306
Email: maviswong@ust.hk
