Obituary: Remembering Hong Kong’s Pioneering Research Academic

Professor Woo Chia-Wei, the founding president of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), passed away at the age of 87 on March 2. Woo played a pivotal role in establishing HKUST as the first research-focused university in Hong Kong in 1991. This institution inspired other local universities to adopt a similar research-centric approach. The Research Grants Committee, an essential funding body for research in Hong Kong, was also established in the same year. [para. 1]

Woo’s vision for Hong Kong and China was ahead of its time. He recognized the unique role that Hong Kong could play in the rise of modern China, particularly in science and technology. His foresight was especially notable as this was a period when China was still developing and Hong Kong faced uncertainty during its transition from being a British colony back to Chinese sovereignty. [para. 2]

Despite considerable challenges, Woo convinced a skeptical local community about the importance of a science and technology university and secured necessary funding with the help of political leaders like Sir Chung Sze-yuen and financial backing from the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Recruiting top international faculty and staff for an as-yet-undeveloped university in a city not renowned for science and technology was another significant hurdle. [para. 3]

Tony Fan-Cheong Chan, HKUST's third president, attests to the enduring impact of Woo’s foundational efforts. The university has adapted to a rapidly changing world, yet the principles Woo established remain relevant. HKUST's growth is evident through its rankings: it was the top university in Asia from 2011 to 2013 according to QS World University Rankings, ranked first globally for its E-MBA programs from 2012 to 2024, and achieved notable placements in 2024 for data science and AI worldwide as well as in global impact rankings by Times Higher Education. [para. 4][para. 5]

One guiding principle Woo espoused was, “First rate people attract first rate people, but second rate people recruit third rate ones.” He used this dictum to recruit highly qualified faculty, often traveling internationally to persuade potential hires to join HKUST. His charisma and vision were instrumental in attracting talent during uncertain times. The dedication and spirit he fostered were infectious, as evidenced by the industrious atmosphere and late working hours in the university's early days. [para. 6]

Woo documented his experiences in the book "To Create Together" (同創), which shares insights into the establishment of a new university. He was partly associated with the nickname "Diaoyutai University" among faculty, due to connections formed during the Diaoyutai movement in the 1970s. Highlighting his commitment to accessibility, Woo ensured that HKUST did not have an exclusive faculty club, advocating for student access to all common spaces. [para. 7]

Additionally, Woo was a visionary about the “Greater Bay Area” concept, which he mentioned in a 1997 speech, anticipating the region's development and the rise of tech innovation in Shenzhen. This foresight fostered a partnership with the South University of Science and Technology, and Woo was honored as an honorary citizen of Shenzhen for his contributions. [para. 8]

Woo also inspires on a personal level, having been the first Asian American to preside over a major U.S. university, San Francisco State University. His leadership journey earned him recognition like the Golden Key of San Francisco and the region’s Golden Bauhinia Star. His achievements inspired many academics, including Chan himself, to assume leadership roles. [para. 9]

Meeting Woo in Los Angeles and later interactions significantly influenced Chan's decision to eventually join HKUST as its president, continuing Woo's legacy. Woo was known for his bold, extroverted nature and willingness to advocate his often-contrarian views. He believed in maintaining pride in one's cultural heritage while contributing uniquely to broader society. His quotes reflect a commitment to preserving the valuable aspects of Asian culture. [para. 10-12]