SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions 

Equal Opportunities and Anti-discrimination Policy 

HKUST is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every member feels valued, respected, and empowered. In alignment of this, the Equal Opportunities and Anti-discrimination Policy was established to combat all forms of discrimination and inequality. The University outlined specific procedures of defence if one should be a victim while also providing guidelines for supervisors to handle the situation. In addition, the Diversity and Equal Opportunities Committee (DEOC) will serve as a central contact point for all related hearings and designated resource persons are stationed across faculty residences for readily available support and guidance.  

Cybersecurity Policy 

Information Technology has been an integral part HKUST’s day-to-day business, and the university recognizes the imminent threat of cyber-attacks. Our Cybersecurity Policy aims to maintain a healthy level of cybersecurity, where our information resources are confidential, secure and readily available for our members to access by meeting the Minimum Security Standard.  

Whistleblowing Policy 

HKUST deeply believes in upholding the utmost integrity within the working community and encourages our members to come forward with any found misconduct. Our whistleblowing policy is designed for any malpractice, misconduct, or irregularity issues that is outside of the University’s established policies and procedures. HKUST will make every effort to keep the identity of Whistleblowers confidential while the Audit Committee proceeds with the investigation, and any report received will be handled expeditiously.   

Guidelines on Acceptance of Advantages 

To adhere to integrity of all conducts, the University encourages all faculty members to be discerning in the acceptance of advantages. Our guidelines on acceptance of advantages policy, in general, discourages any gift, loan, fee, or reward that is given with corrupt motives. It is only when there is no conflict of interest between the university and all related parties that any type of advantages is accepted.  

Policy on Modern Slavery, Child Labour, and Forced Labour

All forms of modern slavery, child labour, and forced labour are prohibited in HKUST by ensuring compliance with the relevant international and local laws, standards and conventions, including the Article 4 of the Hong Kong Bill of Rights (No slavery or servitude), ILO Convention No. 138 (Minimum Age) and ILO Convention No. 29 (Forced Labour). We promote ethical practices throughout the University.

Colors of Inclusion Art Workshop for Staff and Family

The Diversity and Equal Opportunities Unit at HKUST organized a "Colors of Inclusion" art workshop for staff and their families, providing a creative space for participants to express their thoughts and imaginations about inclusion through visual arts. The workshop aimed to promote the uniqueness of individuals and diverse talents within the HKUST community, challenge discrimination, and cultivate an inclusive environment. Through this hands-on activity, participants explored themes of diversity, equity, acceptance, and empathy, contributing to HKUST's commitment to building a welcoming and equitable campus culture. The workshop was part of the broader "Colors of Inclusion" initiative, which also features an artwork exhibition showcasing selected pieces from the HKUST community.

ICAC Student Ambassador

In collaboration with the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), HKUST launched the ICAC Ambassador Programme where the university empowers the students to uphold integrity and promote ethical values within the campus community. As part of the programme, students are encouraged to organize their own self-directed activities to engage with their peers in meaningful discussions that align with the mission of sharing the message of integrity.  

Since 2012, over 100 HKUST students have served as ambassadors, organizing activities to spread anti-corruption values and strengthen ethical awareness among peers.

Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity (DEI) Awareness Workshops 

University-wide publicity campaigns were held to promote understanding and appreciation of diversity. These included celebrations of significant international diversity-related dates, such as International Women’s Day, International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, and Global Diversity Awareness Month.  

The Diversity and Equal Opportunities Unit at HKUST organizes events to foster an inclusive campus culture and promote equity and respect. These include the "Colors of Inclusion" Artwork Exhibition (September 30, 2025 – October 8, 2025), inviting students and staff to submit artworks expressing diversity and inclusion; an annual Exhibition on Anti-discrimination, Sexual Harassment and Inclusive Languages (April 9-15, 2025) raising awareness of Hong Kong's anti-discrimination ordinances; an Inclusive Dialogue on Invisible Disability with Sophia Hotung (April 24, 2025) sharing personal stories of chronic illness; and a International Women's Day 2025 Panel Discussion (March 6, 2025) on allyship and gender diversity featuring speakers from business and academia. Through these initiatives, HKUST demonstrates its commitment to building a welcoming and equitable environment for all. 

Reach Out to Migrant Domestic Workers

Reach Out to Migrant Domestic Workers was a collaborative event with PathFinders to aid the domestic workers through engaging in conversations with them. The volunteers were able to gain a deeper understanding of the issues and challenges experienced by migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong. This outreach emphasized the importance of equal treatment for all citizens and the protection of vulnerable groups, striving for a just and inclusive society.  

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