‘Sze Chi Ching and Wu Shu Min Learning Space’ named in honor of the Dr. Sze family

In a tribute to Dr. SZE Chi-Ching and his family’s generous gift, and in recognition of the family’s support, HKUST has named a learning facility at the ground floor of the Lee Shau Kee Library as the “Sze Chi Ching and Wu Shu Min Learning Space.”

Dr. Sze and his four sons—Mr. Ivis Sze, Mr. Irons Sze, Mr. Ivan Sze, and Mr. Jaime Sze—were joined at the naming ceremony for the Sze Chi Ching and Wu Shu Min Learning Space on March 30 by HKUST’s senior management, including Prof. Nancy IP, HKUST President; Prof. GUO Yike, Provost; Prof. Charles NG, Vice-President for Institutional Advancement; Prof. Tim CHENG, Vice-President for Research and Development; and Ir John KWONG, Vice-President for Development.

“Dr. Sze is a prominent entrepreneur, calligrapher, and philanthropist who has long been dedicated to promoting Chinese culture and arts” said President Ip at the naming ceremony. “His life’s work reflects exceptional wisdom, resilience, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence.”

The heartfelt support from Dr. Sze’s four sons epitomizes their trust in HKUST and the family’s commitment to whole-person education, Prof. Ip continued.

“Their generosity carries special meaning as we celebrate HKUST’s 35th anniversary, strengthening our resolve to foster innovation and broaden interdisciplinary and cultural education. We are sincerely thankful to the Sze family,” she added.

Representing the family, Mr. Ivis SZE shared the lessons for life that his parents bestowed on him and his brothers. 

“My parents have long been passionately committed to social philanthropy and the cultivation of talent. They encouraged us from an early age to keep learning, to dare to try, and be resilient. That resonates deeply with HKUST’s belief in innovation, its pursuit of excellence, and its emphasis on holistic education. HKUST has always stood at the forefront of global education and research, cultivating talent that shapes the future,” he said.

All the brothers are deeply honored by the naming of the library learning facility as Sze Chi Ching and Wu Shu Min Learning Space, which embodies their respect for their parents and their deep longing for their mother, Ivis added.

Dr. Sze’s connection with HKUST dates to 2009 when his calligraphy was displayed at a solo exhibition at HKUST. In 2025, in celebration of Dr. Sze’s 90th birthday, the Library curated a special exhibition that traced his lifelong artistic journey through Chinese calligraphy. Encompassing masterpieces inspired by ancient poetry and classical writings, the exhibition offered the HKUST community the opportunity to appreciate Dr. Sze’s mastery of the art form and its distinctive aesthetic style.

HKUST extends its sincere gratitude to the Sze family for its  generosity and support, humbled that this momentous gift will further enhance teaching, learning, and research development at HKUST, as well as support the Library’s mission to promote culture and the arts.