The University of Hong Kong (HKU) conferred honorary degrees upon Hong Kong's Acting Chief Executive and Administrative Secretary Donald Tsang et al in Hong Kong Friday.

Three other outstanding individuals were also awarded the honorary degrees at the congregation. They include Non-permanent Judge of the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal and former Chief Justice of Australia Sir Anthony Mason; vice president of Chinese Academy of Sciences professor Chen Zhu; and chairperson of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited Dr Charles Lee Yeh Kwong.

Donald Tsang is the leading Principal Official, supporting the Chief Executive in administering Hong Kong. He is also a Member of the Executive Council, the highest policy-making body in Hong Kong.

Tsang joined the Civil Service in January 1967 and became Chief Secretary of Hong Kong. In June 2002, he was awarded the Grand Bauhinia Medal by the Hong Kong government. In recognition of his contributions to the community of Hong Kong, HKU conferred on him the degree of Doctor of Laws honoris causa.

Honorary degrees are awarded to individuals in recognition of their distinguished service and commitment to the university, the community, and to academia. They are also conferred to those who have made valuable intellectual, social and cultural contributions to society and the world.

Source: Xinhua