Inclusivity of the Hong Kong higher education system: a critical policy analysis

As centres of higher learning, universities have a unique imperative to promote diversity and inclusion on their campuses. While a supportive campus environment promotes students" intercultural competence and a sense of belonging in the university's community, a lack of intentional policy structure impedes campus inclusion. This paper aims to examine the institutional policy environment of universities in Hong Kong in order to determine how if at all, institutions in the territory regard inclusion and student diversity on-campus as an institutional value or goal. Using multiculturalism as a lens, we conducted a critical policy analysis of publicly available policy documents from Hong Kong's 11 universities. We highlighted some of the ways in which universities could expand the inclusion of student voices in the policy-making process. We also highlighted how some general trends, such as the provision of health and wellness services, and specific initiatives, such as targeted financial support for marginalized groups, demonstrate the institutions" commitment to implement effective inclusion policies when needed. However, we have also noted how there are persistent gaps within the coverage of existing diversity policies which continue to create barriers for students to access quality higher education in Hong Kong.