City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) is dedicated to connecting with the community and strengthening the University's connections, interaction and collaboration with the local community. On 20 November, CityUHK held the opening ceremony for the “CityUHK@Sham Shui Po” Exhibition. Through a rich tapestry of themes—education, community, technology, arts and culture—the exhibition highlights the unique bonds that CityUHK shares with the Sham Shui Po District in which the University is located. Visitors will explore compelling stories that illustrate the connections forged over the years, reflecting the shared values and aspirations of the University and the local community.

Attending the opening ceremony on 20 November were Mr Paul Wong Yan-yin, District Officer of Sham Shui Po, Mr Lester Garson Huang, Council Chairman of CityUHK, Professor Freddy Boey, President of CityUHK, Professor Lee Chun-sing, Provost and Deputy President, Professor Chan Chi-hou, Vice-President (Community Engagement) and Chairperson of the 30th Anniversary Organising Committee, and Mr Rex Wong Siu-han, Chairperson of the 30th Anniversary Steering Committee.

In his speech, Mr Huang said, “As Council Chairman of CityUHK since 2018, I have witnessed the remarkable growth and transformation of both CityUHK and Sham Shui Po District. Sham Shui Po is not just a district; it is a vibrant community that embodies resilience, creativity and a relentless drive to innovate for the future. Like CityUHK, Sham Shui Po is always striving to move forward, embracing change while honouring its rich heritage.”

He added that as Hong Kong is committed to developing into an East-meets-West international cultural exchange hub, CityUHK, as a most international university, in unison with Sham Shui Po, a traditional cradle for textile, design, creativity and craftsmanship, CityUHK and Sham Shui Po will continue to leverage our strength and expertise to make a difference.

President Boey said, “Recognised as the Most International University in the World by Times Higher Education (THE) in 2024, this accolade reflects our global outlook and diverse community. However, what truly sets us apart is our commitment to being down-to-earth and deeply engaged with our local community. The University is closely connected with its neighbours, maintaining its trajectory towards giving back to society through research and new knowledge.” 

He added that the newly released Quacquarelli Symonds Asia University Rankings 2025, CityUHK made an impressive leap to 10th place in Asia, securing the third position in Hong Kong. This achievement is not just a reflection of CityUHK’s academic rigour, but also highlights how our initiatives resonate with our local community, having an impact across the region and the world. CityUHK takes pride in making a positive contribution to positioning Hong Kong as an international hub for post-secondary education and building the “Study in Hong Kong” brand.

Professor Chan expressed gratitude to everyone who helped make the exhibition possible, helping people understand the connection between CityUHK and the community. He encouraged everyone while exploring the exhibition to reflect on, and look forward to, the future we can create together.

Participants can register online for individual or group guided tours. For more details about the “CityUHK@Sham Shui Po” Exhibition, please visit: http://www.pd4n48r.xyz/vpce/stay-connected/upcoming-events/cityuhksham-shui-po-exhibition