Mr Wu Shang Hong Jason, a distinguished philanthropist, is being honoured for his outstanding contributions to society, particularly through the Wu Jieh Yee Charitable Foundation. As Governor of the Foundation, Mr Wu exemplifies altruism, continuing his family’s legacy. He believes the Foundation unites his family in upholding the benevolent spirit of his grandfather, Dr Wu Jieh Yee. Through the Foundation, Mr Wu spearheads a broad spectrum of educational and community service initiatives, fostering positive change throughout society.

A valued partner of PolyU, Mr Wu and the Foundation have made generous contributions to the PolyU School of Optometry, supporting its vision to address the challenges posed by Hong Kong’s ageing population. The Foundation first partnered with PolyU to address the shortage of optometrists by supporting the expansion of enrolment in the undergraduate Optometry programme, ensuring the continued provision of comprehensive eye care services to the local community.

Later, under Mr Wu’s stewardship, the Foundation supported interdisciplinary research aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals with visual impairments. Mr Wu and PolyU share an aspiration to establish a sustainable healthcare service model through this project and extend its reach to Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, benefiting more patients in need and their families.

Mr Wu also serves as the Director of the AR Charity Foundation, where he has led initiatives in youth development and community healthcare. Guided by his grandfather’s ethos of “giving back to Hong Kong,” he consistently responds to social needs. He has also supported the construction of schools and roads in his hometown of Shunde, earning recognition as an Honorary Citizen of Shunde, Guangdong.

Equally significant is Mr Wu’s dedication to his profession. With over a decade of experience at IBM, he specialised in cybersecurity, providing invaluable consultation to numerous financial institutions across the Asia Pacific. He is an accomplished author and frequent lecturer on identity and access management, offering pro bono talks and mentorship in the Chinese Mainland, thus raising cybersecurity standards in the region.

Mr Wu's commitment to philanthropy and technological advancement serves as a powerful example and inspires us all to strive for positive change in society.

Council Chairman Dr Lam, Council Members, President Teng, fellow honourees, ladies and gentlemen,

I am truly humbled and deeply honoured to be appointed a University Fellow of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) today. This recognition from an institution renowned for its innovation, applied research, and societal impact means more to me than words can express. PolyU has long been a beacon of excellence in higher education, nurturing talents who contribute to progress in Hong Kong and beyond. Joining the distinguished ranks of University Fellows is a privilege I immensely cherish.

As a governor of the Wu Jieh Yee Charitable Foundation, our family has always held education and healthcare close to our hearts, inspired by the legacy of my late grandfather, Wu Jieh Yee—a visionary banker, dedicated philanthropist, and a loving but strict grandfather. In this spirit, our Foundation has supported PolyU over the years, with particular pride in our contributions to the School of Optometry.

PolyU’s School of Optometry is a global leader in vision science. As the sole provider of Hong Kong’s accredited Bachelor of Science in Optometry programme—one of the best in Asia—it trains professionals who safeguard our community’s sight. The School’s ground-breaking innovations, such as advanced myopia control lenses that can slow progression in children by up to 60%, have transformed lives worldwide.

Our recent work with the School reflects our firm belief in this important mission. This support enables increased student enrolment, addressing the growing demand for skilled optometrists amid an ageing population and rising eye health challenges.

My grandmother suffered from various eye conditions, including cataract and a blocked tear duct, which affected her quality of life for many years. We are also hereditary glaucoma sufferers, so we know what it is like. I hope our work with the School can provide better vision care for those suffering with eye conditions in the community and make a positive difference in their lives.

This fellowship strengthens my commitment to PolyU’s mission. I look forward to further collaboration in advancing education, research, and philanthropy for the benefit of society—especially in nurturing the next generation of optometrists who will illuminate brighter futures for all.

Thank you once again for this extraordinary honour. Together, let us continue to apply our knowledge for the betterment of humankind.