In the year 2024, the City University of Hong Kong (Dongguan) (CityU (DG)) embarked on a transformative journey, marking significant milestones that not only defined its character but also its commitment to excellence in education and research. As we unfurl the narrative of this institution's evolution over the year, it is a story of ambition, collaboration, and a forward-looking vision that promises to leave an indelible mark on the academic and research landscape.

01
A new university boosting Songshan Lake high tech

The inauguration of the campus's first phase in early 2024 heralded a new era for the City University of Hong Kong (Dongguan). Nestled in the heart of Songshan Lake Science City, the campus is a marvel of modern architecture, blending seamlessly with intelligent eco-friendly design principles. This strategic location places the university at the nexus of industry and academia, promising unparalleled opportunities for collaborative innovation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The initiation of Phase II construction is a clear signal of the university's ambition to expand its horizons further.

02
The birth of an innovative higher education institution

The date of 16 April 2024 marked a watershed moment with the formal establishment of CityU (DG), authorised by the Ministry of Education. Rooted in the City University of Hong Kong's ethos of “Integration of Teaching and Research”, CityU (DG) is poised to mirror its sister institution to achieve “Consistency in Academic Excellence”. With “Innovating into the Future” as its guiding principle, the university is set to become a crucible for world-class research and professional education.

03 
A triumph in enrollment

The inaugural enrollment season in 2024 was a resounding success, setting a solid foundation for a vibrant and outstanding student community. The university attracted the top student pool in the Chinese mainland and welcomed its first cohort of undergraduates and postgraduates. In the second half of the year, CityU (DG) obtained official approval to admit students across Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and overseas. This achievement underscores CityU (DG)'s potential to become an international melting pot of cultures and ideas, enriching its educational tapestry.

04
A grand commencement

On 2 September 2024, the grand opening ceremony of CityU (DG) marked the culmination of five years of meticulous planning and construction. The event was graced by dignitaries and celebrated the university's role as a new milestone in Hong Kong-Guangdong cooperation in higher education. This event symbolised not just the physical unveiling of the campus but also the launching of an ambitious vision for regional educational exchange.

05
Rising through the ranks

The City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK)'s impressive ascent in international rankings is a beacon of its academic prowess and global outlook. CityUHK was ranked the 62nd in the QS World University Rankings 2025, top 10 among the Asia universities, and first three of the Hong Kong higher education institutions. Moreover, in the THE Most International Universities in the World 2024, CityUHK achieved the first place.

06
Celebrating three decades of excellence

The 30th-anniversary celebrations of CityUHK underscored its legacy of innovation and its future direction with the establishment of new faculties and institutes. These milestones are indicative of CityUHK's enduring commitment to advancing scientific research and nurturing talent.

07
Academic laurels

In the prestigious 'World's Top 2% Scientists 2024' list, unveiled by Stanford University in partnership with Elsevier Database, CityU (DG) has achieved remarkable recognition. This seventh edition highlights the university's profound academic influence on the global stage, featuring 20 scholars in yearly ranking and 16 professors in lifetime recognition. Their research areas span 13 pivotal scientific and technological frontiers, including artificial intelligence, cyber communications, applied physics, nanoscience and technology, and material science.

08
Fostering innovation: HK Tech 300

The expansion of the HK Tech 300 competition to Mainland cities underlines CityUHK's commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship and innovation. The establishment of the Technology and Innovation Centre in CityU (DG) signifies a new chapter in cross-border academic-industry collaboration.

09
Twinning for success

The student exchange agreement between CityU (DG) and CityUHK is a forward-looking initiative aimed at fostering academic exchange and cultural understanding. This partnership is poised to enrich students' educational experiences, offering them a unique blend of international exposure and academic excellence.