As one of the top universities of Greater China, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) not only continues “advancing learning and knowledge through teaching and research in different scientific areas”, but also wishes to build a strong, solid base in Mainland China to share knowledge and innovative technology, and to contribute to the nation’s social and economic development. In 1999, HKUST participated in the urban construction and development of Guangzhou by founding the Nansha Information Technology Park (NSIP) together with the Guangzhou Government and the Fok Ying Tung Foundation. Among all the universities in Hong Kong, HKUST is the first to participate in the economic development of the Mainland.

The Fok Ying Tung Foundation, established in 1984, is named after Dr. Fok Ying Tung, who had visions of Nansha being transformed into a modern vibrant city that would serve as the connection of technology and education for Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta. The Foundation has always regarded its support for, and development of, education, technology, culture, and economy as its own responsibility.

Sharing the same prospects and visions, HKUST received Dr. Fok’s generous donation of HK $300 million in July 2005 to start developing education and research in Nansha through establish the Fok Ying Tung Graduate School. The school was named in memory of Dr. Fok and his generous donation. In January 2007, the HKUST Fok Ying Tung Graduate School” was officially laid in the Nansha Information Technology Park and registered as “The Guangzhou HKUST Fok Ying Tung Graduate School” in March 2007.