From the Nominator

The University of Hong Kong launched the fightcovid19.hku.hk website as part of its urgent response to a fast-changing situation when early information on the novel coronavirus was fragmented. 

 

With its extensive experience with SARS in 2003, the university responded quickly at the outbreak of COVID-19 in January of 2020, and the government sought advice from HKU academics very early on, putting the university in a unique position: one of trust and expertise at a time of uncertainty.

 

The development & alumni affairs office proposed a website to senior management on February 3, 2020 that would serve as a central communication platform to disseminate a spectrum of coronavirus-related information to the HKU community (students, staff, alumni) and the public at large, both locally and internationally. It would be in English and Chinese to reach the widest audience in Hong Kong.

 

On February 4, a prototype website went live for feedback and consultation. Two weeks later, DAAO launched the website with sections on research, teaching, community service, documenting the university’s efforts. The website also aggregated media reports on HKU activities on COVID-19, as well as practical advice from HKU experts to the public on issues such as personal hygiene and face coverings. 

 

The website’s robust platform enabled the university to respond quickly to fast-changing communications needs, and the project team updated the site continuously throughout the year.

 

The website also supported fundraising efforts such as the #TeachforGood project, in which HKU students offered online coaching to disadvantaged middle school students.

From the Judges

This was an impressive campaign with only a five-day turnaround impressive. As one of the first institutions having to deal with pandemic issues, this was a truly effective pivot.