Night view of the grand entrance to HKUST (GZ). (PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (GUANGZHOU))

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology has started a new chapter with the opening of its campus in Guangzhou, Guangdong, on Sept 1. Located in Nansha district, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou) is the first higher-learning institution approved by the Ministry of Education to be operated jointly by partners from Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland following the unveiling of the development outline for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in 2019. It adopts a unique hub structure which facilitates cross-disciplinary education, research and knowledge transfer. HKUST (GZ) is initially offering 15 master’s and doctoral degree programs, is attended by a total of 545 students and has 456 staff members. The university will start undergraduate programs next year.

The gymnasium and soccer field at HKUST (GZ). (PARKER ZHENG / CHINA DAILY)

The HKUST (GZ) campus in Nansha district, Guangzhou. (PARKER ZHENG / CHINA DAILY)

Students at HKUST (GZ) pose for a selfie next to a red bird sundial sculpture, “Circle of Time”, during the opening ceremony. (PARKER ZHENG / CHINA DAILY)

Professor Ni Ming-shuan (center), principal of HKUST (GZ), attends the university’s opening ceremony. (PARKER ZHENG / CHINA DAILY)

A view of the main building of the HKUST (GZ). (PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (GUANGZHOU))

Drones light up the night sky with the university’s logo and “HKUST (GZ)” emblazoned during the evening party to welcome newcomers to HKUST (GZ). (PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (GUANGZHOU))

Builders finalize work on the university’s iconic red bird sundial sculpture, “Circle of Time”. (PARKER ZHENG / CHINA DAILY)

Over 500 students attend the HKUST (GZ) opening ceremony. (PARKER ZHENG / CHINA DAILY)

Students walk past a backdrop welcoming freshmen during the HKUST (GZ) opening ceremony. (PARKER ZHENG / CHINA DAILY)