We have also had some students participate in the Intercultural Peer Learning Program (IPLP), one of them being Winsome, who gave an account of the experience below:
"In January 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to represent HKUST students on a transformative design thinking trip to Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) in South Korea. Over the course of one week, we immersed ourselves in design thinking methodologies, collaborating with peers to tackle real-world challenges.
Our focus was on enhancing mobility for the elderly in Korea, particularly within the bustling subway system, which lacks vertical handrails for support. Inspired by this need, we designed a sturdy, ergonomic stick that provides stability for seniors during their commutes. This innovative solution addresses safety concerns and promotes independence for elderly passengers.
Working alongside talented students from SKKU, we combined our diverse perspectives to create a final product that we were proud of. This experience was not just about design; it was about empathy, collaboration, and the impact of thoughtful innovation on everyday lives. It deepened my appreciation for design thinking and its potential to solve pressing societal issues."
