Swire
Swire's contributions to the development of the University date back to its earliest days.
In 1911, the year HKU was established by Ordinance, Swire made its first gift of £40,000 to the University. The Taikoo Professorship of Engineering was established in 1919, marking the first named professorship at HKU. In 1967, to commemorate Swire's centenary, the Group supported 10 Swire Scholarships and Studentships for graduate students, enabling them to pursue their studies while residing at Robert Black College.
Generous support from Swire has extended beyond campus. The Swire Marine Laboratory, now known as the Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS) at Cape d’Aguilar Marine Reserve, is a leading research facility in Asia dedicated to interdisciplinary tropical and subtropical marine research. With further support from Swire, SWIMS underwent an expansion in 2021, ushering in a new era of marine research. This expansion brings a global perspective to local issues such as biodiversity loss and provides increased opportunities for outreach and education. It exemplifies Swire’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability and marine conservation, reinforcing its dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and protecting our oceans.
SWIRE HALL
SWIRE HALL
"Let's dine at SwireCan"
Even if HKU students and staff are not residing in Swire Hall (太古堂), they are always welcome to visit “SwireCan,” a canteen located on the second floor of the Swire Building. Opened in 1980 as part of the Main Campus development plan, Swire Hall stands as one of the two student residential halls within the Main Campus. It represents the first generation of HKU’s residential halls built as a multi-storey structure, designed with a “student-centered” approach. Each floor features a communal “snack area,” where students can gather, chat, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Pokfulam.
This 11-storey “on-campus home” was made possible through the generous support of the Swire Group. Officially opened on November 11, 1980, by Mr John Anthony Swire (Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, 1989), then Chairman of John Swire and Sons (HK) Limited, Swire Hall provides accommodation for up to 302 undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Reflecting the hall’s official color—orange, a hue often associated with warmth, brightness, and enthusiasm—Swire Hall is a lively and welcoming community where residents affectionately call themselves “Swirians”. Guided by the hall motto “Unity and Sincerity”, students share their views and feelings with one another, fostering an environment of honesty and sincerity. It is a place where lifelong friendships are forged and cherished memories are created.
