Past Visions of the Future
Some perspectives on the history of The University of Hong Kong

The University Museum and Art Gallery of The University of Hong Kong celebrates the 90th anniversary of the founding of The University of Hong Kong with a special exhibition on the University's history. The University of Hong Kong is synonymous with Hong Kong itself, and its history, development and successes over the years have mirrored those of the territory. Founded in 1911, it was the first university in Hong Kong and served not only the local and expatriate community of the time but, as the only British university in the region, also attracted students from all over China and Southeast Asia. As Hong Kong was also the port from which many Chinese emigrants left for Europe, the United States and elsewhere, the impact of education, especially bilingual education in Hong Kong, spread far and wide.

The exhibition celebrates the contribution that the University has made to Hong Kong through a survey of its history; from its founding as a single-building institution, based at today's Main Building, to become the broad multi-faceted campus that it is today. The exhibition includes architectural models, artefacts and photographs.

The highlight of the exhibition is a tribute, presented to Sir Frederick Lugard, then Governor of Hong Kong, by prominent members of the Hong Kong community, when he was about to take a short leave from Hong Kong. It was not usual for governors to receive such a gift except when their period of office ended. The Tribute is therefore a measure of the esteem that the community held Lugard in. At the presentation ceremony, he was especially thanked for his help with a public health problem, and his commitment to education in Hong Kong, especially the Hong Kong University project. The Tribute was presented to the University at the opening of the exhibition by one of Lugard's descendants, Mr. Charles Pinker.

University buildings

University Anthem