CityUHK Dongguan expansion targets excellence

An architectural rendering showcases the second-phase campus of City University of Hong Kong (Dongguan). CHINA DAILY

The second-phase construction of City University of Hong Kong (Dongguan) commenced in March at the Songshan Lake Science City, marking a pivotal step in expanding the university's capacity and influence.

Spanning approximately 22.8 hectares, the Phase 2 project will feature advanced academic and residential facilities, aiming to establish a world-class, internationally oriented campus by 2028. This development supports the university's mission to cultivate high-end talent and drive innovation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Scheduled for completion in December 2027 and operational by 2028, the Phase 2 campus will include facilities such as an academic exchange center, teaching buildings, laboratories, dining halls, student dormitories, parking spaces, sports venues and equipment rooms. Landscaped greenery and other infrastructure will enhance the aesthetic appeal of the campus.

The Phase 1 campus, completed and opened in November 2023, covers approximately 12 hectares, with a total construction area of about 145,000 square meters. It includes 16 buildings, such as a library, teaching and laboratory buildings, dormitories, administrative offices, a gymnasium, dining halls and event centers. With the completion of the second phase, the university's overall space will significantly expand, providing robust infrastructure to accommodate a planned enrollment of 6,000 to 8,000 students.

The construction and development of CityUHK (DG) have consistently received strong support from the government of Dongguan, Guangdong province. At a recent executive meeting, government officials emphasized that CityUHK (DG) is a crucial platform for attracting and cultivating high-end international talent that empowers high-quality development.

They instructed relevant departments to bolster financial support, uphold safety and quality standards, and advance the Phase 2 project and its ancillary developments with high standards to ensure timely completion and efficient utilization.

According to a report by the Guangzhou Daily newspaper, the Dongguan government reiterated the importance of CityUHK (DG) as a key actor in attracting high-end international talent and advancing high-quality development. Government officials stressed the need for strong support to ensure the high-standard construction of the Phase 2 campus.

As an iconic project symbolizing the integration of higher education within the Greater Bay Area, the second phase of CityUHK (DG) is expected to enhance the quality of education, research and living for both faculty and students.

The project will also strengthen the university's ability to support the development of the Greater Bay Area. By cultivating internationally oriented high-caliber professionals and driving industrial transformation and upgrades, the new campus is set to infuse fresh momentum into regional development.