A Programme that Engenders and Empowers

Suppose that four years at university are meant to be an eye-opening period that positively challenges one’s beliefs and value system. In that case, the Bachelor of Social Science in Gender Studies programme at CUHK captures the essence of this undergraduate experience.

The two-year programme was first established in 2015. Emma Yip is among the first graduates. She testifies how her existing views and values were challenged during those two years. ‘I took an introductory course on gender studies in the first term and realised that gender issues were much more complex than I had previously conceived. It’s not as simple as either male or female. The spectrum in between is vast and fluid. I became interested in gender studies because of its interdisciplinary nature that touches on history, culture, anthropology, psychology, politics, media, and law. The programme is comprehensive, multidimensional, and flexible. I, therefore, chose to enrol in it.’

Prof. Ivy Wong, Director of the programme, said, ‘This programme develops students’ sensitivity to social diversity, equality, and relations between different stakeholders. The programme contributes to a better society as a whole. As an interdisciplinary programme, the students will be fully exposed to various disciplines, such as sociology, cultural studies, anthropology, psychology, and literature.’

The programme admits about 25 students each year and specifically targets those demonstrating an enthusiasm for the subject, critical thinking, clarity of thought, analytical mind, and communication skills. Prof. Zhong Hua, the former head of the programme, said, ‘We expect prospective students to be curious and enthusiastic about exploring society and culture in a way that might surprise them, open to new possibilities and views that they might find challenging, and eager to have a deeper understanding of different stakeholders through dialogue to help build a more just and equal society.’

She added, ‘As a relatively small programme, the relationship between students and teachers is especially close. Small classes help students to build their peer network easily.’ Emma agreed, stating that ‘In the course of learning, I met many friends who share the same curiosity and value system. We initiated and participated in many activities, such as festivals and parades related to gender education and rights. As we share common interests but come from different backgrounds, we approached the same issues from different perspectives. These cross-currents in thoughts enriched our learning.’

The gender studies programme emphasises synergy between theory and practice, as well as the classroom and greater society. Students opting for internships as their capstone experience are matched with partnering organisations according to their interests, skills, and availability. At present, around 12 NGOs or projects have offered internship places each year. Another graduate from 2022, Alex Li, said that his internship was the most memorable experience from his studies. He said, ‘In my internship, I worked with others responsible for organising events promoting gender equality and women’s rights. Not only did I learn about how to communicate and cooperate with others, but also how to convey messages through specific activities. I also met people with the same ideals and shared my experiences with them. I deeply believe that gender studies is not just about theories but daily practices that can change our society. This has helped me build my confidence and reflect on ways to handle intimate relationships.’

In addition to internship opportunities, the Gender Studies programme regularly holds forums, public lectures, workshops, and field study tours on gender issues that aim to broaden students’ vision and understanding of gender and related issues. Relationships with gender-concerned groups from Hong Kong, Asia, and the world have put the students on the frontiers of the field even before their graduation.

As this programme has a global vision with a focus on Asia, the field study course has been introduced to broaden students’ exposure to international gender-related issues and topics. In recent years, students have visited Tainan and Kaohsiung in Taiwan and Bangkok, Thailand. Apart from the inter-Asia connection, the programme is well connected with local NGOs working on gender- and sexuality-related issues. Working closely with these organisations through the programme’s internships and other project-based courses, students are encouraged to contribute to positive change in society through social innovation by developing their practical skills in designing and executing projects.

The graduates are well-equipped to meet the increasing demand for gender-aware professionals in civil service, statutory bodies, human resources departments in the business sector, education professions, and social services. The graduates are also trained in intersectional thinking and can conduct quantitative and qualitative research into complex social issues that cut across gender, age, race, ethnicity and sexuality.

The graduates of Gender Studies have joined a wide variety of industries. Some have taken jobs in teaching, business, and social and civil services, while others have pursued further studies in topics such as social work and cultural studies at CUHK and abroad.

Published: Summer 2017
Last Updated: Summer 2022