Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) once again organised its Diversity and Inclusion Awareness Week this year, kicking off with a vibrant Diversity and Inclusion Carnival. The event attracted enthusiastic participation from a large number of students and staff, who gathered to experience diverse cultures in a joyous atmosphere and inject new momentum into our mission of building an inclusive campus.

Prof. Ricky Kwok Yu-kwong, HKMU Vice President (Research and Institutional Advancement), stated in his opening remarks that HKMU is a rich tapestry of cultures, abilities and experiences, and is committed to ensuring that every individual—regardless of background, physical ability or mental health status—feels seen, heard and valued. He said, “I firmly believe that diversity is our strength and that inclusion is our deliberate choice. Diversity and Inclusion Awareness Week is about more than just awareness; it is about fostering a genuine sense of belonging. It is about learning the stories behind the faces we pass in the corridors every day.”

This year's carnival featured 10 interactive booths designed by student groups and external partners, offering a range of distinctive cultural experiences. Participants could sample premium olive oil from Croatia, enjoy exquisite Indian Henna art, and try on traditional outfits from South Asia and Korea, snapping photos on the spot. Additionally, HKMU Student Ambassadors and the Electronic Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) International Student Club of the School of Science and Technology hosted booths to showcase the cultures and customs of places such as India, Japan and Kazakhstan, fostering cultural exchange and appreciation.

The carnival also featured a “braille spelling” experiential booth, providing participants with first-hand understanding of the obstacles and challenges faced by people with visual impairments in their daily lives. Through these activities, participants were encouraged to put themselves in others' shoes, deepen their empathy and respect, and help foster an inclusive campus.

In addition to promoting inclusion, the Carnival placed strong emphasis on students' mental well-being and self-care. Dedicated mental health booths encouraged students to be mindful of stress amid their busy academic lives, to be more aware of their stress levels, and to pay attention to their well-being and that of their peers.

Diversity and Inclusion Awareness Week runs from 17 to 20 March. In addition to the Carnival, the programme includes a guide dog seminar, an Indian Mandala Coaster Workshop and a Nepal Community Tour, which invite students and staff to step into different cultures and communities, listen to the unique stories of people from diverse backgrounds, and learn to appreciate differences, embrace diversity and help build a more inclusive environment.