On January 23, 2025, a dedication ceremony was held to commemorate the establishment of the Sapientia Eminence Professorship. The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Mr Vitor Cheung, Director of Moral Properties Limited; Professor Xiang Zhang, President & Vice-Chancellor; Professor Qiang Zhou, Dean of Science; and Professor Dai Hongjie, the Sapientia Eminence Professor and Chair Professor of Chemistry.
The Sapientia Eminence Professorship was made possible by a generous donation of $15 million from Moral Properties Limited. With this generous support, Professor Dai Hongjie, the recipient of the Sapientia Eminence Professorship, will be able to pursue research and academic endeavors.
To commence the event, Professor Xiang Zhang conveyed his appreciation to Mr and Mrs Cheung. "Mr Cheung's generosity is a significant support for The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and for Hong Kong as a whole. Hong Kong is emerging as a hub for higher education, and talent is paramount to achieving this status. With talented individuals, we will attract a multitude of students and achieve numerous research breakthroughs. These research accomplishments can be leveraged into productivity, ultimately benefiting the development of Hong Kong's economy."
Mr Vitor Cheung holds the belief that education plays a vital role in shaping lives and communities. He expressed, "I aspire that my modest contribution can aid HKU in advancing innovation and technology, supporting Professor Dai in his research and development endeavors, and contributing to both Hong Kong and China."
Professor Qiang Zhou elucidated the term "GeWu (格物)" has its roots in the Confucian classic The Great Learning and serves as one of the mottos of HKU. It encapsulates the essence of seeking truth and acquiring wisdom. "GeWu" aligns with the Latin term "Sapientia," which translates to "wisdom”. He said, “Professor Dai Hongjie, an esteemed international scholar, exemplifies this ethos by continually delving into the pursuit of truth in his research, embodying the spirit of ‘Sapientia Eminence’."
Professor Dai Hongjie, is currently Chair Professor in Chemistry, HKU, with a joint appointment in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and School of Biomedical Sciences in HKUMed. In his presentation, he showcased his groundbreaking work in infrared fluorescence imaging and highlighted his ongoing efforts in clinical translation. He aims to transform the clinical surgical landscape through precise imaging guided tumour resection that benefits numerous cancer patients, and imaging guided surgical navigation that protects healthy vital organs from accidental injury.
The event concluded with the presentation of souvenir. Professor Xiang Zhang presented the Endowed Professorships Commemorative Chair to Mr Vitor Cheung.
More about the Endowed Professorships Scheme
Professor Xiang Zhang presents the Endowed Professorships Commemorative Chair to Mr Vitor Cheung
(Back row from left) Dr Shunlong Wang, Professor Qiang Zhou; Mr Felix Vitor Cheung; Professor Dai Hongjie; Dr Meijie Tang, spouse of Professor Dai and Deputy Director of Technology Transfer Office; Mr Hoi Luk Ng, retired Assistant Director, HKU Finance and Enterprises Office; (Front row from left) Mrs Vitor Cheung and Mr Vitor Cheung
Group Photo of Cheung’s family, Professor and Mrs Zhang, Professor Dai and Dr Tang
Mr Vitor Cheung and Professor Xiang Zhang at the MoU signing and a check presentation in July 2024
