SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
HKUST undertakes conscious effort to create a more inclusive and equitable society. The university regularly conducts research initiatives to identify strategies to address inequalities and related challenges, and our campus provides a diverse range of facilities to support students and staff with different needs. Our programs, events, and partnerships promote awareness and empathy, building a community that values and embraces diversity while also looking beyond the campus boundaries to serve others.
Curriculum
Common Core Program
The Common Core Program requirements are mandatory for all undergraduate students, ensuring every graduate has the opportunity to engage with sustainability. For the 2024-25 academic year, over 20 Common Core courses are directly related to Sustainability and the SDGs, making sustainability education an integral part of the foundational curriculum for all students.
Extended Major in Sustainability
For students seeking deeper engagement, the Extended Major in Sustainability is available in combination with Science, Engineering, Business, Humanities and Social Science, and most Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies majors. In 2024-2025, it offers 55 courses covering a range of SDG topics, providing an interdisciplinary pathway for students across disciplines.
Other Relevant Programs
Additional specialized degree programs further integrate SDGs into the curriculum, including the BSc in Environmental Management and Technology (EVMT) , the BSc in Sustainable and Green Finance (SGFN) , and the BSc in Ocean Science and Technology (OST). These multi-disciplinary programs equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address specific sustainability challenges.
For more details on the integration of SDGs across the HKUST curriculum, please click here.
HKUST offers courses such as:
SOSC 3880 – Social Inequality and Social Mobility: Analyzes the structural roots of inequality and pathways to upward mobility.
SOSC 3250 – Gender and Development: Develops an understanding of how gender discrimination and poverty intersect, and analyzes strategies for empowering women.
SOSC 1860 – Population and Society: Examines how demographic processes like fertility, migration, and aging shape and are shaped by social structures and inequality.
MGMT 2130 – Business Ethics and Social Responsibility: Prepares business leaders to make responsible decisions that protect vulnerable workers and promote equitable livelihoods.
Research
According to Science Direct, from 2021 to 2025, HKUST published 167 research papers addressing SDG 10.
12.3% of them are in the top 10% cite score and around 72.5% are internationally co-authored.
Research Highlights
InclusiViz: Visual Analytics of Human Mobility Data for Understanding and Mitigating Urban Segregation
HKUST researchers have developed InclusiViz, a visual analytics system that uses human mobility data to analyze and address urban segregation in both residential and activity spaces. The system employs a deep learning model to predict mobility patterns across social groups and uses explainable AI to reveal environmental factors influencing segregation. Interactive visualizations allow users to explore segregation patterns from citywide overviews to neighborhood-level details and evaluate urban planning interventions with real-time feedback.
The interface of InclusiViz guides experts through a segregation analysis and iterative intervention design workflow.
Publication
Beyond its efforts to foster an inclusive and equitable campus environment, HKUST is also advancing SDG 10 through research that addresses social and economic disparities, promotes inclusion, and reduces inequalities. The following publications highlight the university's commitment to tackling systemic barriers and creating more equitable opportunities for marginalized communities:
Labor Migration Modeling Through Large-Scale Job Query Data
HKUST researchers have developed a deep learning framework using job search data to predict labor migration in real-time. By providing timely insights into talent flows between cities, the model helps policymakers design fairer regional development strategies. This supports SDG 10 by addressing regional disparities and helping underserved communities access better economic opportunities.
"As I know, there is nothing there for our people": unmasking mental health literacy and help-seeking attitudes among ethnic minorities in Hong Kong
A study by HKUST researchers found that South Asian older adults in Hong Kong face significant barriers to mental health care, including low mental health literacy, stigma, language barriers, and a lack of culturally sensitive services. Despite openness to seeking help, participants struggled to access appropriate support. The study highlights the urgent need for culturally tailored services and inclusive healthcare policies to reduce health disparities among ethnic minorities, supporting SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Policy
HKUST is dedicated to promoting equal opportunities and eradicating discrimination through our Equal Opportunities and Anti-Discrimination Policy. Aligned with our Strategic Plan 2031, we strive to create an inclusive and open environment where all members of our community are treated fairly and provided with equal opportunities. Procedures for Handling Discrimination and Harassment Complaints has been implemented, replacing the Policy on Sexual Harassment, offering a more comprehensive, transparent, and accountable approach for handling discrimination and harassment matters at the University. Reporting to the University Administrative Committee, the Diversity and Equal Opportunities Committee (DEOC) has been established to oversee equal opportunity, diversity, and inclusion matters, and to spearhead flagship engagement programs such as Global Diversity Awareness Month.
Collaboration
HKUST Partners with The Women's Foundation to Advance Gender Equality and Inclusion
HKUST has become the first university in Hong Kong to join The Women's Foundation (TWF) as an Advocate Partner, offering staff access to programs including the Mentoring Program for Women Leaders, the Male Allies Program, and the Boardroom and C-suite Leadership Program. These initiatives aim to address systemic barriers to women's leadership, promote gender equity in the workplace, and build a more inclusive culture. By engaging men as allies and supporting women's career advancement, the partnership contributes directly to reducing gender inequalities and fostering a more equitable and diverse leadership pipeline in Hong Kong.
Financial, Basic Needs, and Education Support
University Financial Assistance
HKUST offers financial aid programs for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. The University Financial Assistance (UFA) is available to local students facing financial hardship, with assistance levels determined by their family's financial circumstances, including special provisions for Emergency Financial Assistance. The University also supports students with programmes such as Deferment of Tuition/Hall fees and a Loan Scheme for Off-campus Housing.
"Work-Study" On-Campus Internship Program
Students with demonstrated financial need are also be eligible for the “Work-Study” On-Campus Internship Program (WSOCIP). In addition to their allowance from their on-campus internship, they would also receive a dollar-to-dollar matching bonus from HKUST SFAO.
Personal Finance Ambassador Programme
To further sustainable finance, the university also holds a special Personal Finance Ambassador Programme in collaboration with Career Sparkle for students to practice managing one's financial resources that balances both personal goals and long-term environmental and social sustainability.
Accessible Facilities and Services
The University is dedicated to ensuring our facilities and services are accessible to every member of the University, including individuals with disabilities. By incorporating inclusive design and supportive features, we aim to remove barriers and provide an equitable experience for the HKUST community. Our accessible facilities include on-campus Welcab Service, tactile guide paths and barrier-free access, and lifts with braille markers.
Funding Scheme for Student Activities on SEN
The University is committed to creating and promoting a positive learning environment that provides equal opportunities for all students. As part of the HKUST community, students, staff, and faculty members are encouraged to cultivate campus inclusion and enhance disability awareness and accessibility.
The Funding Scheme for Student Activities on Special Educational Needs (SEN) supports student initiatives to organize events and activities that educate the HKUST community on the needs and concerns of students with SEN. This scheme aims to increase student leaders' knowledge on SEN, discourage discrimination, celebrate diversity, and foster the integration of students with SEN into daily campus life.
Community Engagement
Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity (DEI) Awareness Workshops, Campaigns, Modules
In 2024-2025, HKUST offers a series of workshops designed to support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across campus.
The Workshop on Understanding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Introduces staff to core DEI concepts and terminology, equipping them with foundational knowledge to build a more inclusive workplace—with the next session scheduled for 14 August 2025.
Breaking Down Barriers: How does Unconscious Bias Affect You?: An interactive session that explores how unconscious bias shapes perceptions and actions, helping participants recognize their own biases and take steps to promote inclusion (last held on 21 February 2025).
Unlocking the Power of Diversity: Helps students develop cultural competency by examining the benefits, opportunities, and challenges of diversity within the HKUST context, empowering them to appreciate differences and navigate diverse environments effectively.
Exhibition on Discrimination & Sexual Harassment Prevention and Inclusive Language: This annual exhibition raises awareness about Hong Kong's four anti-discrimination ordinances and promotes the use of inclusive language. The next exhibition will be held from 10-17 April 2026.
Online Training Module on Preventing Sexual Harassment: Developed by the Equal Opportunities Commission and supported by eight tertiary institutions, this online module equips students with knowledge on sexual harassment and practical steps to respond to and intervene in incidents. It is available online on an ongoing basis.
DVST1010: Cultural Sensitivity for Thriving in a Diverse Community: This eLearning module (HMAW1905-recognized) helps students develop intercultural competence through topics like self-awareness, overcoming stereotypes, understanding bias, and building inclusive dialogue. It is available online on an ongoing basis.
Cultural Diversity Game Jam - June 3, 2025
Pathway to Social Inclusion
In collaboration with Po Leung Kuk Wing Lung Bank Golden Jubilee Sheltered Workshop and Hostel, HKUST volunteers welcomed 12 individuals with intellectual disabilities to campus for a guided tour. This initiative promoted social inclusion by creating opportunities for cross-ability interaction, challenging stereotypes, and deepening volunteers' appreciation for the uniqueness of individuals of all abilities, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society.
Pathway to Social Inclusion (HKUST Connect Event) - November 12, 2024