Mapathon @HKUST 科大地圖松

In many parts of the world, outdated or incomplete digital maps hinder emergency response efforts, leaving vulnerable communities at greater risk during disasters. Recognizing this critical need, HKUST volunteers joined the Missing Maps initiative to help chart unmapped areas of Myanmar and Thailand following the earthquake in Myanmar in early 2025.

Working collaboratively, the volunteers mapped approximately 3,800 buildings together. Their contributions were instantly shared with humanitarian organisations worldwide, equipping frontline responders with reliable data to accelerate aid delivery, evacuation planning, and resource allocation during future crises. This event provided students with hands-on experience in humanitarian technology, but also demonstrated the power of open-source collaboration in building a safer, more prepared world.