The University of Hong Kong (HKU) has received 24 awards at the Universal Design Award Scheme 2026/27 (UDAS) organised by the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC), including one Double Gold Award, 22 Gold Awards and one Silver Award, in recognition of the University's efforts in promoting accessibility, inclusion and universal design across the campus.
The UDAS 2026/27 Award Presentation Ceremony was held on 9 October 2026. Representatives from the Centre of Development and Resources for Students (CEDARS), Centre for Sports and Exercise, Equal Opportunity Unit, Information Technology Services and Libraries attended the ceremony and received the awards.
HKU Executive Vice-President (Administration & Finance), Mrs Cherry Tse Ling Kit Ching, said, "We are delighted that HKU’s efforts in advancing universal design have been recognised by the EOC. This achievement reflects the concerted efforts of colleagues across the University to remove barriers and enhance accessibility in all aspects of campus life, from learning spaces and libraries to residential halls and colleges, sports facilities, and student and staff services. We will continue to strengthen these efforts and foster an inclusive and welcoming campus where all members of our University can thrive and enjoy equal opportunities to learn, work and participate."
Among HKU’s award-winning units, CEDARS Mind and Wellbeing was honoured with the Double Gold Award in the Office Buildings and Office Spaces category, in recognition of its sustained commitment and outstanding efforts as a past award recipient. To achieve a Gold Award in the Scheme, a participating organisation must meet a series of judging criteria, including demonstrating that its facilities, services and information cater to a wide spectrum of users, provide equitable use, ensure safety and low physical effort, offer overall accessibility, and incorporate innovative design or accessible technologies. The assessment process of the UDAS begins with a self-assessment by participating organisations on the accessibility of their facilities and services, followed by random site audits by the EOC.
Launched by EOC in 2024/25, the UDAS recognises public and private organisations with outstanding contributions in implementing universal design, and encourages more organisations to adopt such practices to enhance accessibility for all. The UDAS covers a range of application categories, including (1) Shopping Malls and Retail Space, (2) Office Buildings and Office Spaces, (3) Restaurants, (4) Buildings and Sites with Recreational, Sports or Cultural Purposes, and (5) Revitalised Sites. This year’s expansion of the UDAS application categories to include public and private residential buildings and higher education institutions has enabled HKU’s participation in the scheme and strengthened the promotion of universal design.
Please click here for the details of HKU's awards under the Universal Design Award Scheme 2026/27.
HKU representatives took a group photo with Ms. Linda Lam Mei-sau, EOC Chairperson (fifth right), Dr. Ferrick Chu Chung-man, EOC Executive Director (Operations) (1st right) and Mr. Ivan Luk Chi-cheung, EOC Executive Director (Enforcement) (first left)
HKU received 24 Awards at the Universal Design Award Scheme 2026/27
