A generous donation from one of Hong Kong’s leading entrepreneurs marks the first scholarship specifically designated for HKUST’s Major + AI program, reinforcing the University’s mission to nurture talent with an interdisciplinary mindset and the ability to integrate AI across disciplines to solve real-world challenges.

The visionary gift from Ms. Fiona CHEUNG, Chairman of Forest Zone Limited, will establish the “Fiona Cheung Scholarship”, to support high-achieving local students pursuing the Extended Major in Artificial Intelligence (Major + AI) program.

A highly accomplished entrepreneur with diverse business interests, Ms. Cheung is profoundly committed to philanthropic ventures and education. Her distinguished track record of community contributions includes leadership roles at Po Leung Kuk and Yan Oi Tong.

The signing ceremony on June 12 was officiated by Ms. Cheung, alongside Prof. Nancy IP, HKUST President; Prof. Charles NG Wang-Wai, Vice-President for Institutional Advancement; and Prof. QU Huamin, Dean of the Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies and Acting Head of the Division of Emerging Interdisciplinary Areas.

At the ceremony, Ms. Cheung emphasized that education is the cornerstone for cultivating talent and propelling national progress. “By establishing this scholarship, I hope to provide tangible support for students to unleash their potential and translate their knowledge into contributions for Hong Kong and our country,” she said.

Her support for HKUST is rooted in a deep appreciation for the University’s “can-do” spirit and its world-class research capabilities. “I greatly admire HKUST’s educational philosophy and vision,” Ms. Cheung added. “As the demand for AI professionals grows, we need innovative young minds to seize the opportunities of the era and drive social advancement.”

Prof. Nancy Ip, HKUST President, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for Ms. Cheung’s inspirational dedication to education and passion for community service.

“Her benevolent donation not only reflects her deep care and aspirations for the younger generation but also represents a strong endorsement of HKUST’s development in AI research and education,” Prof. Ip said.

In his address, Prof. Qu Huamin introduced the core components and curriculum of the Major + AI program. 

“With technology advancing faster than ever, this donation supports our mission to nurture talent with an interdisciplinary mindset and the ability to integrate AI with different disciplines to solve real-world challenges. The flexible pathway of the Major+AI program ensures students build a solid foundation in their majors while pioneering innovative AI applications within their professions,” he said.

Since the launch of the Major + AI program in 2020, HKUST has remained at the forefront of interdisciplinary AI research and education. In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings by Subject, HKUST’s Computer Science, which encompasses AI and Machine Learning, has been ranked 1st in Hong Kong for the past 10 years.

Looking ahead, Ms. Cheung envisions this initiative as a powerful call to action for fellow leaders to provide the best educational resources for the next generation.