A Lasting Partnership with CUHK

These words from Sir Run Run Shaw encapsulate not just a philosophy but the guiding principle that illuminated his extraordinary four-decade relationship with The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). Through his visionary foresight and unwavering commitment, Shaw has transformed the educational landscape of Hong Kong and beyond.

Seeds of Shared Vision: Developing Well-rounded Individuals

What distinguishes Shaw’s partnership with CUHK from conventional educational philanthropy is the deep alignment of shared values. Both are committed to creating nurturing environments for academic dialogue and most importantly, cultivating humanity. Together we recognise that education encompasses both intellectual growth and also the development of moral character and social responsibility.

The journey began quietly in 1967 when Sir Run Run joined the Board of Trustees of United College when Hong Kong’s academic infrastructure was still nascent. So began a lifelong commitment to the university’s mission. A pivotal moment arrived in 1981 with the funding of Sir Run Run Shaw Hall. Professor Ma Lin, the second Vice-Chancellor of CUHK, eloquently expressed that the hall was more than just a building and marked “a significant milestone in the university’s community life.” The hall did swiftly become the cultural heart of the campus, hosting performances, ceremonies, and intellectual exchanges that enriched the academic experience for thousands.

Another defining moment came in 1986 during a campus visit when Sir Run Run noticed a vacant piece of land intended for a new college but which was delayed due to a funding shortfall. With his characteristic decisiveness, Sir Run Run pledged his full financial support by the end of the day. This project would become Shaw College which in those days of rapid population growth played a crucial role in addressing Hong Kong’s urgent need for expanded educational infrastructure.

Transcending mere bricks and mortar, Shaw College embodies Sir Run Run’s conviction by elevating educational quality and fostering a profound cultural ethos enshrined in its motto, Cultivating Virtue and Pursuing Knowledge(「修德講學」) . By championing a holistic vision with multifaceted educational programmes, the College has served as a foundation for exemplary students.

Expanding Horizons: Bridging Borders

Building on this strong relationship with CUHK, Shaw’s educational vision transcended borders and evolved to meet changing needs. In 2014, the partnership took a significant geographic leap when the Shaw Foundation became one of the first major donors to CUHK (Shenzhen). This support catalysed remarkable growth over the following decade, significantly extending CUHK’s educational influence into mainland China.

Today, Shaw College in CUHK (Shenzhen) nurtures approximately 2,000 accomplished alumni. With its consistent ranking at the top of the seven colleges, it remains consistent with Sir Run Run’s original vision, adapted into a new context.

The Run Run Shaw International Conference Centre represents another piece of landmark infrastructure at CUHK (Shenzhen). Comprising approximately 2,100 square meters of thoughtfully-designed space, this grand venue serves as a cultural hub for major events, artistic performances and international conferences. It symbolises CUHK’s position as a vibrant cultural nexus and advances the university’s arts and cultural ambitions, enriching campus and community.

Carrying Legacy: Creating and Renewing Intellectual Spaces

The partnership with CUHK reflects Sir Run Run Shaw’s vision while addressing the university’s evolving needs, with the Foundation carrying his legacy forward to ensure Shaw’s values remain integral to CUHK’s objectives. This commitment is illustrated in the ongoing support for diverse physical spaces so critical within a thriving academic community.

Sir Run Run’s legacy continued steadfastly under Lady Mona Shaw. She acted with the same unwavering spirit and generosity of her late loving husband with the establishment of Mona Shaw Hall in 2019 to support the growing need for student accommodations. For decades, Lady Mona Shaw tirelessly guided the Foundation with Sir Run Run’s original spirit and selflessness.

The Shaw Foundation’s commitment to the university continues to develop. The Shaw Auditorium at the Prince of Wales Hospital, established in 2001, serves as a vibrant hub for medical academic discourse. Over the years, it has hosted countless conferences where healthcare innovations are shared and refined, ultimately translating into improved patient care. Ensuring that the good work of the hospital continues, the Foundation in 2024 supported its comprehensive refurbishment.

Sir Run Run Shaw’s lasting partnership with CUHK reflects his foresight in treating education as humanity’s best investment, and his firm belief in working with long-term partners to nurture the minds of future generations.