Connecting with Stories: HKUST Impact Makers’ Buddy Reading Program
This semester, the HKUST Impact Makers program launched a collaboration with Kids4Kids to host the Buddy Reading program for dedicated staff volunteers. Ahead of delivering the sessions, staff volunteers completed training in January to help foster social and emotional learning among primary school students.
After completing the volunteer training, 14 staff volunteers formed smaller teams to visit a group of 20 Grade 2 students at Alliance Primary School in Tai Hang Tung every month from February to May. Each session focused on different themes designed to support students in developing their emotions and resilience.
Peggy Li, from Library, shared, “I enjoyed the time spent with the children who participated in the Buddy Reading Program. Although we were the ones delivering the service, we could also enjoy moments of English reading and share the good values from the stories together.”
“Kids are so innocent and straightforward that their reactions instantly tell you whether you’ve won them over. As a volunteer reading books to them, I learned to bring stories to life—using my voice, gestures, and energy—to turn every page into something interactive, engaging, and most importantly, FUN,” shared by Vanessa Kwong from the Human Resources Office.
Overall, the program was a tremendous success, centred on the theme of uniqueness and creating an engaging learning environment. With a curriculum designed to strengthen social and emotional development, we are confident that our volunteers will inspire—and positively influence—the students they work with.
About the HKUST Impact Makers Program
The Impact Makers Program, organized by the Sustainability / Net-Zero Office in collaboration with the Human Resources Office, encourages staff to dedicate their time to meaningful causes. Volunteering not only supports the community—it also fosters well-being, connection, and team spirit. Participation in these activities is supported under the University’s Special Leave policy.
