The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) recently played host to two significant events aimed at fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange in academia. First, HKUST welcomed Mr. Almas Seitakynov, the Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Hong Kong and Macau, marking his inaugural visit to the campus. This visit underscored HKUST’s commitment to global outreach and enhancing ties across cultures.
During the visit, CG Almas engaged in a productive discussion with HKUST management and faculty members, including Prof. WANG Yang, the Vice-President for Institutional Advancement; Prof. Emily NASON, Director of the Undergraduate Recruitment and Admissions Office; Prof. Naubahar SHARIF, Acting Head and Professor of the Division of Public Policy; and Ms. Yvonne LI, the Head of Global Engagement and Greater China Affairs. The dialogue spanned a plethora of topics—from student mobility and talent development to fostering academic collaborations—demonstrating HKUST's dedication to creating a more interconnected academic environment.
This meeting culminated with a dialogue at the HKUST Library, which presented members of the university community with a unique opportunity to engage directly with CG Almas. He shared firsthand insights regarding his career journey, the latest developments in Central Asia, and the opportunities that the One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative has introduced to the region. The interactions were not only enlightening but also exemplified the spirit of cooperation and shared learning that HKUST strives to embody.
On the same day, HKUST hosted a meeting with Prof. Andrew Hamilton, Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University—one of the world’s top educational institutions—serving as a critical platform for Hong Kong’s higher education leaders to address pressing global university issues. The assembly of prominent figures included heads from several universities: City University of Hong Kong President Way Kuo, Hong Kong Baptist University Vice-President (Academic) Prof. Franklin Luk, Hong Kong Institute of Education Vice-President (Administration) Mr. Chris Mong, Lingnan University President Yuk-Shee Chan, and Hong Kong Polytechnic University President Timothy W Tong. Still, the presence of Prof. Hamilton was especially noteworthy.
“HUCOM is deeply honored by the presence of Prof Hamilton, head of one of the very top universities in the world, at our meeting. We have had a very inspiring exchange of ideas and insights,” stated Tony Chan, HKUST president and convener of the Heads of Universities Committee (HUCOM) since May 1, 2010. This remark highlights the significance of these gatherings, where insights and experiences from different educational sectors were put forth.
Discussion topics during this assembly encompassed various aspects of the undergraduate and graduate experience across Hong Kong, the UK, and the USA, reflecting on the global challenges faced by educational institutions today. All present were keen to brainstorm and explore solutions to these challenges, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among educational leaders worldwide.
Moreover, the involvement of notable individuals, including Mrs. Sue Cunningham, Director of Development at the University of Oxford, Ms. Julia Herries, Director of the University of Oxford China Office in Hong Kong, and Mr. Peter Upton, Director of the Hong Kong British Council, underscored the meeting's commitment to strengthening ties between local and international educational bodies.
The day at HKUST exemplified the university's ongoing mission to not only serve its students and faculty well but also to welcome contributions from around the globe. Dialogues with dignitaries like CG Almas Seitakynov and Prof. Andrew Hamilton spearhead the university’s vision for diversity and international collaboration, ensuring that HKUST remains a key player on the global academic stage.
As HKUST continues to engage with world leaders and educational institutions, it reinforces the idea that collaboration and the sharing of knowledge across borders are not merely goals but essential components of modern education. Through such initiatives, HKUST is setting a standard for how universities can work together to overcome challenges and harness opportunities arising in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
