Professor Wang Gungwu, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Hong Kong from 1986 to 1995, is an internationally-renowned authority on Chinese history, in particular on Chinese overseas. Professor Wang is presently Director of the East Asian Institute of the National University of Singapore, Distinguished Senior Fellow at the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies, Singapore, and Emeritus Professor of the Australian National University. During his vice-chancellorship at HKU, higher education in Hong Kong expanded enormously, and the University accepted its highest ever intake of students. A firm believer in the benefits of globalisation, Professor Wang strongly encouraged international activities and exchanges with overseas institutions. Under his support the University established the University of Hong Kong Foundation for Educational Development and Research, the first of its kind at the local tertiary education level, to foster stronger links with the community and enhance the University's capacity for teaching and research.
In recognition of his contributions, the University has resolved to confer upon him the degree of Doctor of Letters honoris causa.
