The president of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has pledged to make the institution "the top choice" for overseas academics and to capitalise on opportunities presented by the current geopolitical situation.

Acclaimed scientist Dennis Lo, who assumed office in January, also said on Tuesday that the university has brought in 150 scholars from 15 different countries and regions since 2023.

"With the changes happening around the world, we understand this may be an opportunity for us to bring in more acclaimed scholars from abroad. My team and I will look into how we can provide them with research funding, among other things, to make sure Chinese University is their first choice," Lo told reporters after his inauguration ceremony.

At the ceremony, the professor said the university must be more focused on achieving its goals than ever and be flexible in the face of challenges, adding that he is drawing up a new five-year plan for the institution.

"We shall further enhance the educational experience of our students. One avenue is the development of the first graduate college at CUHK. We will enhance the internationalisation of the university through recruitment of outstanding students and staff from around the world," Lo said in the address.

More than 700 people attended the ceremony to officially inaugurate Lo as the university's head, during which he was handed the seal of the vice-chancellor and president as well as a copy of the university's ordinance.