HKUST Pioneers Official Flexible Work Location Policy | The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) is committed to implementing flexible and family-friendly policies that foster an inclusive and supportive workplace. Recently, the University introduced a weekly work-from-home day and special leave options aimed at enhancing work-life balance and promoting an employee-centric culture.

While work-from-home arrangements have become increasingly common since the pandemic, HKUST has recognized the impact of fast-growing technology on the modern work environment, and became the first publicly-funded university to formally establish a flexible work location policy as part of a broad investment to attract and retain exceptional talent. Starting this October, HKUST employees may choose to work remotely one day each week, depending on the nature of their duties.

Meanwhile, to enhance community engagement, HKUST has introduced four days of special leave each year for employees to participate in volunteer services, wellness initiatives, and programs promoting diversity and equal opportunities. Staff can organize their own volunteer activities or join those recognized by the university, fostering individual well-being and enhancing team cohesion. Since the policy was implemented in November 2022, over 170 employees have engaged in a variety of volunteer activities, including visits to elderly homes, beach cleanups, and food-saving programs. HKUST plans to launch more initiatives, such as urban planting and food waste recycling, to promote sustainability and support its net-zero action plan.  

Prof. TAM Kar-Yan, Vice-President for Administration and Business at HKUST, said, “What makes a university great is its people. HKUST prioritizes attracting and nurturing talents while emphasizing retention. Our flexible working plan reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace. The initiative aims to create an environment where staff can thrive, contribute to the university’s reputation for excellence and innovation while balancing their family and work commitments. Ultimately, we seek to enhance productivity and retain top talent.” 

Ms. HUANG Ying, Director of Human Resources, HKUST, added, “At HKUST, we believe that empowering our staff through flexible work arrangements fosters a culture of trust and collaboration. We are prioritizing employees’ well-being and creating an employee-centric environment. This initiative not only enhances work-life balance but also drives productivity and innovation, as our team members feel valued and supported in their roles.”

As a research university that champions diversity and innovation, HKUST also offers a range of family-friendly policies designed to support staff development. Female faculty members, for example, receive exemptions or reduction in teaching duties during pregnancy and postpartum leave, while new parents are entitled to reduced or suspended teaching responsibilities.  Junior faculty members are granted sabbatical leave to pursue academic research and professional development. Additionally, the university hosts annual recognition and long-service award ceremonies to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of its talented faculty in teaching, research and knowledge transfer.
 

About The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology  
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) (https://hkust.edu.hk/) is a world-class university that excels in driving innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. With a holistic and interdisciplinary pedagogy approach, HKUST was ranked 3rd in the Times Higher Education’s Young University Rankings 2024, 19th Worldwide and No.1 in Hong Kong in Times Higher Education’s impact Rankings. Twelve of HKUST’s subjects were ranked among the world’s top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, with "Data Science and Artificial Intelligence" being ranked first in Hong Kong and 10th in the world. Our graduates are highly competitive, consistently ranking among the world’s top 30 most sought-after employees. In terms of research and entrepreneurship, over 80% of our work was rated “Internationally excellent” or “world leading” in the latest Research Assessment Exercise 2020 of Hong Kong’s University Grants Committee. As of October 2024, HKUST members have founded over 1,800 active start-ups, including 10 Unicorns and 14 exits (IPO or M&A).