SDG 5: Gender Equality 

17 related courses were offered in the 2021-22 academic year.   

From 2018 to 2022, HKUST published 24 research papers related to gender equality. 

HKUST is committed to creating an inclusive environment, treating all community members with fairness and respect. Discrimination and harassment are actively opposed, following the university’s Equal Opportunities and Anti-discrimination Policy guided by the Diversity and Equal Opportunities Committee (DEOC) which plays a crucial role in ensuring equal opportunity, diversity, and inclusion at the university.  

The University has implemented Anti-discrimination and Sexual Harassment Policies to ensure a fair and inclusive working environment. These policies are based on the four anti-discrimination laws in Hong Kong, which cover sex, disability, family status, and race.   

HKUST is committed to achieving gender parity and actively promotes diversity and the reduction of stereotypes for a more equitable society, especially in STEM fields. In celebration of International Women's Day (IWD), the university organizes a range of events every year, including a book corner celebrating women's achievements and encourage individuals to participate in these events or become ambassadors to share the message in person or on social media.   

Women Faculty Association (WFA) 

The Women Faculty Association (WFA) at HKUST was established in 2011 by a group of dedicated women faculty members from all schools of the university. The Association provides mentoring and support networks for women faculty and students, organizes seminars and forums, supports university initiatives, and has established scholarships and camps to encourage women's participation in underrepresented fields. 

Women in Business 

The Women in Business (WIB) at HKUST aims to empower women, introduce aspiring executives to professionals, and close the gender gap in leadership. WIB offers mentorship and projects for studentssuch as the Project Leadership Program ’that enhances students’ professional development by connecting them with successful female industry leaders.  

Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Scholarship 

The WISE Scholarship established by HKUST aims to encourage high-achieving female students to pursue studies in science, engineering, or interdisciplinary studies by providing financial support and recognition. The scholarship not only recognizes academic excellence but also considers non-academic talents, achievements in science and technology competitions, and interview performance.  

HKUST organizes talks and trainings to promote diversity, equity, and inclusiveness in the workplace, bridging the gender gap in the tech industry, and preventing sexual harassment on campus. International Women’s Day events in March 2022, such as LEAP Talk: Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness in the Workplace which prepared women to face invisible barriers in the workplace and how to overcome diversity/equity/inclusion issues when they encounter them. We also served as academic partner for the AmCham HK: Bridging the Gender Gap in Tech which highlighted how technology companies are seeking to accelerate diversity and inclusion, and let participants hear from a panel of female leaders on how they address challenges they faced in the workplace due to their gender.