Celebrating Honorary Doctorates at HKUST's Graduation Ceremony

Memorable Moments from HKUST's 2025 Congregation Ceremony

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) recently celebrated a significant milestone with its Congregation 2025 event where five esteemed leaders received honorary doctorates in recognition of their impressive achievements.

Attendees included prominent figures such as HKUST Pro-Chancellor Dr. John Chan Cho-Chak, HKUST Council Chairman Prof. Harry Shum, and President Prof. Nancy Ip, enriching the ceremony with their esteemed presence.

Honorary Doctorate Recipients

This year’s honorary doctorates were awarded to five individuals, each a leader in their respective fields:

Prof. Pradeep K. Khosla

As the Chancellor of the University of California San Diego, Prof. Khosla has made significant advancements in education and technology. His career path began in India and includes pivotal roles that emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to tackle global challenges.

Prof. Roger David Kornberg

Prof. Kornberg, a Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry, has made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of gene transcription, forging paths in molecular biology that have implications for medical advancements.

Mr. Liu Cixin

Author of the acclaimed novel The Three-Body Problem, Mr. Liu has brought science fiction into the global arena, winning the Hugo Award and inspiring many with his imaginative storytelling.

Prof. Sir Christopher Pissarides

A Nobel laureate in Economic Sciences, Prof. Pissarides' research has transformed our understanding of unemployment and labor markets. His influence as a professor at the London School of Economics feeds into his teachings and guidance at HKUST.

Mr. Stephen A. Schwarzman

Co-Founder and CEO of Blackstone, Mr. Schwarzman oversees a vast global investment firm. His philanthropic endeavors, surpassing a billion dollars, reflect his commitment to education and social issues.

Acknowledging Their Impact

During the ceremony, HKUST Council Chairman Prof. Shum expressed admiration for the honorary doctors, highlighting how their journeys are a beacon of inspiration for students and faculty alike. He remarked, "These leaders stand as paragons of innovation and determination, showing us the heights that can be achieved through hard work and perseverance. Their stories inspire our graduates to not only pursue success but also to make meaningful contributions to society."

President Ip also honored the graduates' commitment and hard work, emphasizing the importance of their journey and the potential to effectuate positive changes in the world. She encouraged them to embody a spirit of resilience and innovation in all future endeavors.

A Celebration of Achievement

The event marked the graduation of the Class of 2025, adding over 111,000 alumni to HKUST’s global network. The university conferred a total of 6,929 degrees, showcasing its dedication to fostering new generations of leaders and innovators.

In addition, Prof. Ip awarded the Michael G. Gale Medal for Distinguished Teaching to Prof. Ben Chan Yui-Bun, recognizing his exceptional contributions to engineering education, highlighting HKUST's commitment to educational excellence.

Engaging Conversations with Honorees

The ceremony also featured an engaging dialogue between Mr. Schwarzman and Prof. Shum about leadership and societal contributions, emphasizing the role of education in fostering talent and innovation. Their discussions on the intersection of entrepreneurship, AI, and higher education were particularly enlightening for all attendees.

Furthermore, Mr. Liu Cixin captivated the audience with insights into his creative process and the future of science fiction, bridging literature with contemporary themes of technology and humanity.

Looking Towards the Future

As HKUST continues to uphold its founding mission, the university remains focused on empowering future leaders who will navigate a rapidly changing world. With a commitment to innovation and global understanding, HKUST shapes the educational landscape for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the honorary doctorates awarded for?

Honorary doctorates are awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to their fields and society, recognizing their achievements and impact.

Who were the honorary doctorate recipients at HKUST?

The recipients included Prof. Pradeep K. Khosla, Prof. Roger David Kornberg, Mr. Liu Cixin, Prof. Sir Christopher Pissarides, and Mr. Stephen A. Schwarzman.

How does HKUST celebrate its graduates?

HKUST celebrates its graduates during the Congregation ceremony by conferring degrees and honoring those who have made remarkable achievements.

What is the significance of this year's event?

This year's event marks the graduation of the Class of 2025, adding to HKUST's extensive alumni network and highlighting the university’s educational mission.

What themes were discussed during the event?

Key themes included leadership, innovation, and the role of education in societal progress, with engaging discussions on entrepreneurship and the impact of technology.

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