"Artificial intelligence, the climate crisis, clean energy, socio-economic disadvantage... as a university, how should we confront these challenges?" This was the call to action issued by Prof. Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Manchester (UoM), during the Hong Kong launch of the university’s global fundraising and volunteering campaign, "Challenge Accepted"

Modern society faces urgent transformations similar to those of the 1820s, when the university was founded: the Industrial Revolution upended economies, societies, and modes of production. At that time, Manchester was at the epicentre of these changes, and the universitys founders sought to address the cognitive challenges of the era through higher education.

Prof. Duncan Ivison

In the midst of a new technological revolution, the university bears an undeniable responsibility to respond to these modern dilemmas. Success depends on whether the institution has sufficient research and teaching resources, the ability to nurture future leaders with both creativity and imagination, and—equally importantly—the capacity to build partnerships with diverse stakeholders to effectively give back the fruits of teaching and research to society

Especially in an increasingly closed world—a world filled with boundaries and obstacles that hinder everything—universities need to be pioneers in breaking down barriers and maintaining dialogue and communication," said Prof. Ivison.

These reflections inspired the "Challenge Accepted" campaign. The university aims to raise £400 million and secure 1 million hours of alumni volunteer service over the coming years. This ensures the institution has the social capital and financial resources to tackle four key areas of reform: student inclusivity, targeted research, innovation and entrepreneurship, and connecting culture with the community.

Following the launch ceremony, approximately 130 alumni filled the ballroom at The Repulse Bay. These social elites from around the world and various industries form a cohesive alumni network, eager to give back and help the university achieve this ambitious goal.

Eric Li, Nelson Yuen, Louis Wong

During the event, the university honored three alumni—Louis Wong, Eric Li, and Nelson Yuen—for their long-standing and outstanding contributions. Through establishing foundations and sponsoring scholarships, they have translated the spirit of Manchester into concrete social action.

Nelson Yuen, who is retiring from the Board of the University of Manchester Hong Kong Foundation after more than 10 years of service, noted that the original intention behind the foundation was simple: "To build a bridge between Manchester and Hong Kong." Over the years, this bridge has facilitated scholarships for disadvantaged students, global graduate support programmes, and sponsored doctoral projects to train researchers.

Nelson Yuen

He remarked: "Our alma mater does not just impart knowledge; it grants us the confidence, connections, and a platform to build our lives and careers. Serving the foundation is the way for alumni to pass on this gift" 

While the dedication of these three alumni laid the foundation for Manchester in Hong Kong, the subsequent "Fireside Chat" demonstrated how this spirit has taken root across generations. Patrick Vizzone, the new Chair of the Hong Kong Foundation Board, Donna Buckland, Chair of the Alliance MBS Hong Kong Alumni Association, and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ivison engaged in a dialogue.
Their conversation moved beyond funding amounts to share how their identity as "Manchester people" has allowed them to become advisors and confidants at lifes crossroads, transforming the alumni network into a mutual-aid ecosystem for collective growth.

Donna Buckland, Patrick Vizzone

Buckland, who has a Korean-New Zealander background and has worked in many countries, recalled her experience at the university. For her, the Manchester East Asia Centre felt like "coming home," allowing her to truly integrate into a globalized community. There, she gained not only a degree but also lifelong friends who serve as advisors during pivotal moments. 
In the Manchester family in Hong Kong, the word no does not exist in the dictionary," said Vizzone, noting that the communitys spirit of mutual support is powerful when advice or time is needed. This is not merely a slogan, but is evidenced by the immediate response of alumni to numerous university projects.
Buckland emphasised that supporting ones alma mater is a "self-fulfilling prophecy." When alumni shout "Challenge Accepted" in unison, the bridge they have built does more than connect two geographical points—it weaves an ecosystem where personal value and the universitys reputation enhance one another.
Ms. Olivia Chan, Director of the  University of Mancheter East Asia Centre and a supporter of the Challenge Accepted campaign, "I believe challenges are best addressed through collaboration. By convening diverse partners and mobilising research, education, and community action, we can respond to global crises and translate Manchester’s strength into meaningful outcomes for East Asia and beyond."