The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) officially launched its 35th Anniversary celebrations on March 16, 2026 with a vibrant ceremony, bringing together distinguished government officials, industry leaders, faculty, students, and alumni at The Hong Kong Jockey Club Atrium to reflect on three and a half decades of institutional excellence
Guided by the anniversary theme, "Where Miracles Happen," the milestone event honored the pioneering spirit that has driven generations of the HKUST community to achieve remarkable breakthroughs in education, research, and innovation. The ceremony was officiated by key government representatives, including Mr. CHAN Kwok-Ki, Chief Secretary for Administration of the HKSAR Government; Mr. LUO Yonggang, Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR; and Dr. CHOI Yuk-Lin, Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Government. They were joined by HKUST Pro-Chancellor Dr. John CHAN Cho-Chak, Council Chairman Prof. Harry SHUM, Court Chairman Dr. the Honorable Andrew LIAO Cheung-Sing, and President Prof. Nancy IP to formally inaugurate the anniversary year
Reflecting the University’s leadership in science and technology, the ceremony showcased cutting-edge innovations developed within the HKUST ecosystem. In a seamless blend of tradition and advanced engineering, a team from HKUST’s Guangzhou campus presented a robotic lion dance, reimagining the classic folk art through advanced robotics.
The highlight of the officiating ceremony featured a demonstration of autonomous tech. A fleet of robotic dogs—jointly developed by the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, the Cheng Kar-Shun Robotics Institute, and HKUST-nurtured startup Direct Drive Technology—took center stage. Originally engineered for complex terrains and industrial inspections, the robotic quadrupeds successfully delivered the ceremonial "Miracle Balls" to the officiating guests on stage, symbolizing HKUST's dedication to translating research into real-world impact.
The innovation showcase culminated in a dramatic aerial display. A drone, generously donated by distinguished alumnus and DJI Founder Mr. WANG Tao, flew into the atrium to deliver the commemorative "35th Symbol Key" to the officiating party, marking the official launch of the anniversary calendar.
Following the kick-off, the ceremony closed with a heartfelt expression of solidarity. Members of the HKUST community united to sing the University anthem, led by the University Philharmonic Orchestra and University Choir, embodying the "1-HKUST" spirit. The celebration concluded on a high note with dynamic student performances, including rope skipping, a cappella, Chinese drums, and a musical duo, setting an energetic stage for the series of celebratory events ahead
Click here for more information!
