Bulletin No. 2, 2009

20   Chinese University Bulletin No. 2, 2009 In 1970, Professor Kao joined CUHK as a professor and head of the then Department of Electronics, becoming the first Professor of Electronics at CUHK later. In 1985, he was awarded the degree of Doctor of Science, honoris causa by the University. In 1987, Professor Kao assumed the Vice-Chancellorship of CUHK. An outstanding scientist, he pledged to cultivate a vibrant research culture and to promote scholarship at the University. He also attached great importance to developing postgraduate studies. In his inaugural speech, Professor Kao said, ‘No first-rate university can do without major research efforts, and our research student body must be increased.’ Professor Kao believed that he enjoyed two advantages as a vice-chancellor: ‘First, I am highly experienced in working with first-class talent. I know well how to motivate them in their pursuit of excellence.... Second, I consider myself a fair and impartial person. This is the principle to which I adhere when dealing with people and conducting affairs.’ And it is precisely the broad-mindedness and liberalism of this visionary scientist that remain a fond and vivid memory for many CUHK staff and students. In 1996 Professor Kao stepped down as Vice-Chancellor of CUHK, after spending a third of his career at the University. But he has continued his association with CUHK as an Honorary Professor of Engineering. CUHK named the north wing of the Science Centre the Charles Kuen Kao Building and set up the Charles Kuen Kao Fund to support academic research, international links and student activities. The Purple Mountain Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences named a minor planet discovered by Chinese astronomers after Professor Kao, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to information technology, especially in fibre optic communication and its application.