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The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its founding president, Prof. Chia-Wei WOO, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 87. Prof. Woo's visionary leadership and dedication were instrumental in establishing HKUST as a leading research university in Hong Kong and beyond. HKUST conveys its deepest condolences to his family and friends.

Prof. Woo served as HKUST President from 1991 to 2001, during which he laid the foundation for a world-class institution that has significantly contributed to the advancement of technology and education in Hong Kong and the region. His foresight in proposing the Hong Kong Bay Area in the 1990s has left a lasting impact on the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).

Mourning the passing of Prof. Woo, HKUST Council Chairman Prof. Harry SHUM said, “Prof. Woo was one of the few individuals with both grand visions and strong capability of execution. With unwavering dedication, he led the establishment of HKUST, transforming a bold vision into a world-class institution renowned for its pioneering research, innovation, and global impact, especially during a time when Hong Kong was in a critical juncture of transitioning to a knowledge-based economy. His departure marks an irreplaceable loss to our University, Hong Kong and the global academic community, but his wisdom, humility and dedication to “creating, not replicating” will continue to inspire our community.”  

Deeply saddened by the departure of Prof. Woo, HKUST President Prof. Nancy IP, who worked with him for over eight years from 1993 to 2001, stated, “A man of extraordinary foresight, Prof. Woo envisioned and empowered HKUST as a catalyst for Hong Kong’s transformation. He forged a culture of excellence, recruiting distinguished faculty, designing cutting-edge curricula, and fostering partnerships with leading global institutions. His insistence on cross-disciplinary collaboration and a forward-looking research agenda laid the foundation for HKUST’s enduring success. Today, as we rank among the top universities worldwide, we remain steadfast in upholding the mission he so passionately advanced. His legacy has not only been etched in the walls of our university but also in the hearts and minds of every individual he inspired.” 

“On behalf of my family, we are deeply grateful for the love and support we have received during this difficult time. As a devoted family member, my father inspired us every day with his wisdom, kindness, and staunch commitment to making a difference. A man of peace and a true Renaissance man, he shone as a cultural bridge builder and humanitarian in his lifelong mission of raising understanding, awareness, and education. We will always remember him and strive to carry forward his innovation, determination and can-do spirit. We are confident that his legacy will continue to impact those around us, especially within the HKUST community—a place he always regarded as home,” his son De Kai said. 

Beyond HKUST, Prof. Woo’s contributions extended over decades of service to both the Hong Kong and mainland governments. Apart from serving on several Hong Kong government committees including the Commission on Strategic Development and Industry & Technology Development Council, he was appointed by the Chinese Government first as a Hong Kong Affairs Advisor, then a Member of the Preparatory Committee for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; and in 1998 a member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.  

His lifelong commitment to education earned him numerous accolades, including the Gold Bauhinia Star (GBS) and Commander of the British Empire (CBE).

Professor Woo’s legacy at HKUST is indelible. After stepping down as President in 2001, he continued to serve as University President Emeritus and Senior Advisor, guiding successive generations of leaders. 
 

About The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology  
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) (https://hkust.edu.hk/) is a world-class university that excels in driving innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. With a holistic and interdisciplinary pedagogy approach, HKUST was ranked 3rd in the Times Higher Education’s Young University Rankings 2024, 19th Worldwide and No.1 in Hong Kong in Times Higher Education’s impact Rankings. Twelve of HKUST’s subjects were ranked among the world’s top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, with "Data Science and Artificial Intelligence" being ranked first in Hong Kong and 10th in the world. Our graduates are highly competitive, consistently ranking among the world’s top 30 most sought-after employees. In terms of research and entrepreneurship, over 80% of our work was rated “Internationally excellent” or “world leading” in the latest Research Assessment Exercise 2020 of Hong Kong’s University Grants Committee. As of November 2024, HKUST members have founded over 1,800 active start-ups, including 10 Unicorns and 16 exits (IPO or M&A).