Spring Issue, 2014

ON CAMPUS 11 The Inaugural University Laureate The title of University Laureate is the highest academic honour that the University bestows on academics who have made world-class scholarly contributions to the academic world, whose work is regarded as paradigm changing, definitive or canonical in their discipline, who have strived to serve and bring positive changes to society, and who have received international acclaim. This highest academic honour was first bestowed to Professor Jao Tsung-I 饒宗頤 (Hon DLitt 1982), the world- renowned Sinologist. In the citation delivered by Professor Cheng Kai-ming 程介明 (BSc 1966; BSc(Sp) 1967; CertEd 1981; AdvDipEd 1982; MEd 1983), Chair Professor, Division of Policy, Administration and Social Sciences Education: “Through his meticulous and rigorous research, Professor Jao has enriched and expanded the concept of research. In seeking the true meaning of scientific understanding, and in interpreting and explaining the objective world, he exemplifies the essence of Gewu ( 格物* ). His virtuous character, integrity and generous disposition illuminate the human virtue: Professor Jao is an outstanding scholar who embodies the essence of Mingde ( 明德* )” Professor Jao’s lifelong passion for art and culture has found expression in over a thousand publications, as well as in his poetry, calligraphy and paintings. He has transformed and pioneered studies in many disciplines, including history, archaeology, literature, culture, education, religion and art. He is also an acclaimed expert in finer specialist areas including the study of Confucian Classics, Buddhist scripts, oracle bone inscriptions, historiography, epigraphy, folklore, historical musicology, linguistics, comparative cultural studies, translation and history of fine arts. His pioneering research on Dunhuang materials has firmly established Dunhuang studies as a major discipline in modern Sinology. January 10, 2014 http://hku.hk/others/Ulaureate.html * The motto of the University of Hong Kong