30/08/2005
New Scholarship to Groom Global Young Leaders
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) inaugurated the Swire International Young Fellows Program today (30 August 2005), which will nurture a new breed of competitive talents for the global economy.
Mr Keith Kerr, President Chu and the Swire International Young Fellows
Mr Keith Kerr Under the HK$8 million Program, HKUST will admit leading
overseas students as full-time undergraduates. Outstanding local students will also be supported through exchanges to renowned overseas institutions.
HKUST President, Prof Paul Chu, and Swire Properties Ltd's Chairman, Mr Keith Kerr, officiated at a campus ceremony to mark the occasion.
Thanking The Swire Group Charitable Trust for supporting the Program, President Chu said: "Internationalization of the student body is a major component of the HKUST Strategic Plan.
"I fully expect the University to become a hub at which local and international students converge from all nations, to create an international energy and ideas that will drive society's progress. This is a vision I am sure the Swire Group shares, having itself demonstrated for so long that multiculturalism promotes dynamic new thinking and growth."
Mr Keith Kerr responded: "It is a privilege for The Swire Group Charitable Trust to support the internationalization of HKUST's
student body through the Program. The global community in which we live will increasingly depend on young leaders in a range of professional fields to operate successfully within different countries and cultures. We are delighted to be partnering with HKUST in fostering the very worthwhile aim of educational, cultural and social enrichment through international exchange."
Six Swire International Young Fellows have been admitted to HKUST in academic year 2005-06 and the years thereon. Each possesses an impeccable academic record, and has demonstrated potential leadership skills worthy of top students at any of the world's finest universities.
This year's Swire International Young Fellows comprise nationals of China, Germany, Indonesia and Malaysia. They will pursue degree programs in electronic engineering, physics, biochemistry and business administration.
Under the terms of the Program, each of the Swire International Young Fellows will receive a scholarship of HK$120,000 per year to cover tuition, accommodation and living expenses during the course of their studies. Twenty exchange-out students are selected from among the 400 leading undergraduates who participate in the University's exchange programs each year. They will receive scholarships of HK$25,000 to attend top-flight institutions, such as the University of California and University of Pennsylvania, for a period spanning one semester to one
academic year.
Jacky Tsang Tel: 2358-6306 Email: patsang@ust.hk
