Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu on Monday expressed sorrow over the death of Henry Hu Hung-lick, co-founder and president of Hong Kong Shue Yan University. Hu died on Sunday at age 105.
“Dr Hu and his late wife, Dr Chung Chi-yung, established Shue Yan College to broaden the tertiary education opportunities of Hong Kong’s younger generation. They remained steadfast to the educational philosophy of ‘cultivating virtues of benevolence; broadening horizons and knowledge’, and spared no effort in promoting Shue Yan to become a postsecondary college and Hong Kong’s first private university, Hong Kong Shue Yan University,” Lee said.
Hu was born in Shaoxing, Zhejiang province, on Feb 26, 1920. He was a barrister in Hong Kong, and served as the vice-chairman of the Reform Club, vice-chairperson of the Urban Council, and a Legislative Council (LegCo) member.
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In 1971, the Hus established Shue Yan in Happy Valley in response to the acute shortage of tertiary institutions for local secondary school graduates who wanted a university education. On Dec 19, 2006, Shue Yan College became the first private university in Hong Kong after it was renamed Hong Kong Shue Yan University.
“Dr Hu dedicated himself to the university and served as its president until his passing, commanding the respect and love of the university’s staff, students and alumni. Dr Hu devoted substantial financial resources and personal effort to the development of Hong Kong’s postsecondary education, nurturing generations of virtuous talent for Hong Kong,” Lee said.
“He also actively participated in public service and made outstanding contributions to Hong Kong. He was awarded the Grand Bauhinia Medal in 2008.
“I express sorrow over the passing of Dr Hu and extend my deepest condolences to his family,” Lee said.
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Education Secretary Christine Choi Yuk-lin also expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Hu, and extended her heartfelt condolences to his family.
“Dr Hu cultivated students with both moral integrity and benevolence. His educational philosophy and enthusiasm have benefited generations of students, making him a true role model for the education sector.”
Choi said she believes that Hu’s selfless contributions and noble spirit will be remembered fondly by all.
Contact the writer at tongsijiu@chinadailyhk.com
