Dr the Honourable Run Run Shaw
In a long and highly creative career in the cultural sector, particularly in film and television, Dr the Honourable Run Run Shaw, GBM, was truly a master of the arts. His shrewd and imaginative leadership helped to create a stage on which Hong Kong’s creative and cultural talent was on display, and from which emerged a modern Hong Kong identity. Arts and culture are the face a community sees in the mirror, and also the face it turns to the world outside. More than anyone else, Dr Shaw showed Hong Kong to itself and to the world.
While Dr Shaw’s monuments are all around us, the most precious are the invisible ones — the great educational projects he supported so generously. He was extraordinary generous to HKU, and indeed to many other universities in Hong Kong and beyond.
In recognition of his pioneering contributions to the film and television industry in Hong Kong, as well as his efforts in cultural activities and community service, he was conferred the degree of Doctor of Laws honoris causa in 1980.
RUN RUN SHAW BUILDING & RUNME SHAW BUILDING
RUN RUN SHAW BUILDING & RUNME SHAW BUILDING
The monuments of Dr the Honourable Run Run Shaw are all around us, but the most enduring are the invisible ones — the great educational initiatives he so generously supported.
The Run Run Shaw Building (邵逸夫樓) and the Runme Shaw Building (邵仁枚樓), collectively known as the Shaws Buildings, were named in honor of the Shaw brothers — whose vision and philanthropy have left an indelible mark on the university.
Located at the heart of the Main Campus, the construction of the Shaw Buildings was part of the university’s campus redevelopment plan to accommodate a growing student population. These twin structures were officially opened on October 14, 1985, with Sir Edward Youde, then Chancellor; Dr Run Run Shaw; and Dr Rayson Huang, then Vice-Chancellor, officiating the event.
“Education is an important means to bring about better standards of living, and The Shaw Foundation is happy to have the opportunity of associating with HKU through participation in its development programme,” said Dr Run Run Shaw at the opening ceremony.
The ground floor, which gracefully connects the two buildings, has become a lively and cherished hub known affectionately as the "Shaw Podium" by the HKU community. This vibrant area hosts student activity booths, creating an engaging environment where students and staff can enjoy meals while soaking in the scenic views of the lush foliage surrounding the Lily Pond and the bronze statue of Dr Sun Yat-Sen.
