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In 2022, The University of Hong Kong (HKU) received a generous donation of HK$100 million from Mr Karson Choi Ka-Tsan in support of the establishment of Karson Choi College. Guided by the core values of "Innovation, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship", the College is dedicated to cultivating a new generation of leaders with both technological vision and social responsibility.

The College commenced operations in September 2023 as one of the four residential colleges at Jockey Club Student Village IV, providing 300 places for local and international undergraduates. Equipped with a College Hall, multi-purpose activity rooms, and outdoor spaces, the College regularly hosts high table dinners, innovation forums, academic lectures, and workshops to foster globally minded innovators.

The College is named after Mr Karson Choi, the founder of pioneering enterprises including Qianfan Technology and Shanghe Tech. In late 2024, Mr Choi facilitated the establishment of the Hong Kong Artificial Intelligence Educational Base and forged the first tertiary collaboration with HKU. Additionally, Shanghe Tech partnered with HKU to launch the "Low-Altitude Economy Joint Laboratory", reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as an international innovation and technology hub.

Dual Celebrations Mark Key Milestones
Since its inception, Karson Choi College has celebrated two pivotal moments within one year:
15 November 2024: The Inaugural High Table Dinner was held at HKU’s iconic Loke Yew Hall, marking the College’s grand debut.
26 March 2025: The Dedication Ceremony took place at the College hall, symbolising its official launch.

These events not only showcased the College’s growth but also embodied its ethos of cross-disciplinary dialogue and innovative practice. The first High Table Dinner brought together leaders for a thought-provoking discussion, while the Dedication Ceremony set a visionary direction for the College’s future.

Inaugural High Table Dinner: A Star-Studded Cross-Sector Dialogue
On 15 November 2024, the College hosted its first High Table Dinner at Loke Yew Hall, attended by benefactor Mr Karson Choi and Mrs Irene Choi, international action star Donnie Yen and his wife Cissy Wang, President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Xiang Zhang, and College Master Professor Ivan Hung, alongside over 300 students and HKU members.

Professor Zhang highlighted the significance of residential education: "A residential college is more than just accommodation—it is a community where ideas collide, friendships form, and leaders emerge. We look forward to witnessing even greater collaboration and innovation here."

Mr Karson Choi shared his founding vision: "My hope is to provide young people with more opportunities to learn and explore, making the boundless possibilities of technology accessible to all."

The evening’s highlight was Donnie Yen’s candid dialogue with students, where he openly discussed personal breakthroughs and artistic cultivation in response to their questions.

College Launch: Dedication Ceremony Celebrates a Legacy of Innovation
On 26 March 2025, HKU held a Dedication Ceremony at the College Hall to express gratitude for Mr Karson Choi’s generous donation. The event brought together Mr. Choi, ICAC Commissioner Woo Ying-ming, Professor Xiang Zhang, College Master Professor Hung, and over 300 distinguished guests and students to celebrate this milestone.

In his speech, Mr Choi inspired students: "This is your time to shine. Question the “usual way” of doing things. Don’t be afraid to fail. Use your creativity to solve real problems, and let your entrepreneurial spirit turn those solutions into something that matters."

Professor Zhang expressed heartfelt appreciation: "Your gift is an investment in the dreams of our students, and the future of innovation. For your trust in HKU’s mission, and your faith in these young minds, we thank you."

Following the ceremony, a High-Table Dinner was held with ICAC Commissioner Woo Ying-ming as the distinguished keynote speaker. Drawing from his experiences as an HKU alumnus and leader in the Correctional Services Department, Commissioner Woo shared invaluable insights on beliefs and values of future leaders. Addressing the students, he emphasised, “As a leader, you must put people first. Do take a broader perspective – that beyond yourself, there are others, society, and a greater purpose. Always consider their needs and interests.”

The evening ended on an inspiring note, highlighting the vital role of education in developing leaders who are guided by wisdom and moral courage.

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For enquiries, please contact:
Development & Alumni Affairs Office, HKU
Tel: 3917 1733 
Email: daao@hku.hk