Introduction

Edmonton, the province capital of Alberta, sits in the center of Canada’s vast western prairies. Since 1995, it has shared a special connection with Taishan, Guangdong Province, a famous hometown of overseas Chinese. Over the years, many outstanding students from Taishan have become a bridge between the two places. This bond began thanks to the generosity and vision of a well-known Hong Kong entrepreneur, Dr. Charles Chan.

Dr. Charles Chan’s family roots are in Wencun, Taishan. After finishing high school at Pui Ching Middle School in Hong Kong, he moved to Edmonton, Canada, to study civil engineering at the University of Alberta. After graduation, he returned to Hong Kong, started his own business almost from scratch, worked hard, and eventually achieved success. Even after achieving great success, Dr. Chan never forgot the importance of giving back. Through his own journey, he came to deeply understand how education and knowledge can change the lives of individuals, strengthen communities, and even impact entire nations.

Back in his hometown of Taishan, Dr. Chan funded the building of schools and created scholarships to reward outstanding students. To give even greater opportunities, he also partnered with his alma mater, the University of Alberta, to set up the Chan Pang Kuen Memorial Scholarship, named in honor of his father. Every year, one to five of the outstanding students from Taishan are chosen to study at the University of Alberta, with all expenses fully covered. Dr. Chan’s expectation was that these students, once they finished their studies, would return to serve their country and uplift their hometown. His generosity, offered with no expectation of return and with such long-term vision, continues to inspire admiration and respect.

The Chan Pang Kuen Memorial Scholarship has been running for 30 years. Over this time, 77 students have studied or are still studying at the University of Alberta with its support. Many of them have graduated and are now working in different fields, contributing to society and fulfilling Dr. Charles Chan’s vision for the scholarship. For every recipient, the chance to study in Canada has been an unforgettable and life-changing experience.

This website is here to honor Dr. Charles Chan’s generosity, to keep the memories of each scholarship recipient, and to remind all students to stay grateful. It is also meant to encourage them to not only pursue their own dreams, but also to give back to society and share their good fortune with others.

With encouragement for all fellow students!