The prize celebrates the achievements of people who have made significant contributions in a number of fields. A number of these prize-winning individuals have a close connection to Hong Kong, including renowned scholars, academics and entrepreneurs, as well as world-renowned artists and film directors. In addition, the prize honours Hong Kong’s most outstanding young talent in different categories.
This year, a total of five scientists have been awarded the Shaw Prize in astronomy, life science and medicine, and mathematical sciences. Among them, Shrinivas R Kulkarni of the California Institute of Technology won the Astronomy Prize for his discoveries on millisecond pulsars, gamma-ray bursts and other variable and transient astronomical objects. The Life Science and Medicine Prize was shared by Swee Lay Thein of Universiti Malaya and Stuart Orkin of Harvard Medical School for their discovery of the mechanisms underlying the fetal-to-adult haemoglobin switch, which makes it possible to develop revolutionary therapies for sickle cell anaemia and thalassemia.
During the ceremony, Chief Executive Officer Lee Tsang reaffirmed that Hong Kong is determined to thrive in this ever-changing world and become an international innovation and technology hub. He paid tribute to Run Run Shaw, the founder of the prize, and said that the prizes inspire young people to see the promise and possibilities of science. Lee also urged everyone to make use of the opportunities presented by the government’s policy address last month, especially those in post-secondary education, to help Hong Kong become a leader in global development and contribute to the sustainable and inclusive prosperity of mankind.
BOCHK SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION PRIZE is a merit-based scientific research award hosted by The Hong Kong Alliance of Technology and Innovation, sponsored by Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited. The award aims to recognize scientists and research teams whose scientific and technological innovation achievements have undergone substantial transformation and created economic or social value, and to promote public awareness of the importance of science and technology.
The Board is responsible for the overall operation of the prize and ensures that all review work is performed objectively and impartially. It consists of a Review Committee, a Compliance Oversight Team and a Secretariat. Its members are required to support the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and uphold high levels of professionalism and social morality. If any personnel involved in the award work violates the provisions of the Charter, the Board may terminate the prize, withdraw the prize money, certificate and trophy. The decision of the Board is final.