NEWS 16 SEPTEMBER 2024

Tigillus Foundation Extends Support of Research and Teaching in Chinese Studies at HKU

On September 16, 2024, the Founder, Mr David H.Y. Chang, of Tigillus Foundation presented their momentous gift to further support the academic research in Chinese History at the Faculty of Arts, University of Hong Kong (HKU). This significant gift is aimed at establishing an Endowed Professorship in the department, as well as an Academic Fund. The Endowed Professorship will be designed to recognise distinguished and exemplary scholars, and the Fund aims to support the incumbent’s research and academic activities at the University.

The cheque presentation and signing ceremony was held on September 16, where Mr Chang was warmly received by Professor Xiang Zhang, President and Vice-Chancellor, and Professor David Pomfret, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, HKU. Professor Zhang, upon expressing his gratitude on behalf of the faculty and recognising the profound impact this gift brings, stated that the gift is “not only to support us in advancing our studies in Chinese history but also to prepare the next generation of students to learn.” He remarks that such generosity signifies the recognition of HKU as the forerunner in cutting-edge Chinese history studies. “If you don’t learn things from the past, you cannot look into the future.” Professor Zhang’s concluding remarks echo the foundation’s mission to magnify philanthropic endeavours that benefit students, the community, and mankind.

Mr Chang, reflecting on his Western-educated background and his deep passion for art, culture, and education, shared his personal vision for Chinese history research at HKU. He sees it as both the locus and propellant for a brighter future. ‘Too long have we travelled abroad to seek higher. I hope within my lifetime, our home-grown institutions will become the beacons of learning and attract the brightest young minds from home and abroad. This journey towards self-determination and self-reliance, however, starts with taking the right step forward,’ he remarked.

“We must explore and understand not only our own history but also the history of nations around us and how we interacted with them. We must learn from our past mistakes to ensure history does not repeat itself. Thus, I want to make this contribution to the University of Hong Kong in the field of Chinese history to plant the seed for a brighter future— for it is my city, my country, and my duty.”

The Faculty of Arts at Hong Kong University was established in 1913, and the School of Chinese Studies was established in 1927 through endowments from overseas Chinese. Its mission to foster studies of language, literature, history, archaeology, folklore, and religious beliefs continues to nurture scholars who weave the fabric of Chinese civilisation. The Tigullus Foundation is proud to echo this mission and provide support for the future of Chinese historical studies at HKU and beyond.