The founder of Chinese tech giant, Alibaba, Jack Ma has been made an honorary professor of business at a top Hong Kong university, the school announced Friday.

The appointment comes weeks after the billionaire made a rare public appearance in China following his fall from grace during a government crackdown on the tech industry over two years ago.

Ma has kept a low profile since late 2020, when a speech he made attacking Chinese regulators was followed by Beijing pulling the plug on a planned IPO by Alibaba affiliate Ant Group.

A record fine of $2.75 billion was later imposed on Alibaba for alleged unfair business practices.

The University of Hong Kong on Friday said Ma had accepted an honorary professorship from its business school.

A spokesperson for the institution said it welcomed Ma sharing “his rich knowledge and experience in business innovation and development”.

The professorship carries a three-year term ending in March 2026, according to local media. The school’s website now contains a profile of Ma highlighting his expertise in “management and strategy.” (The PUNCH)