Mapathon @HKUST (Apr 2026)

In many parts of the world, outdated or incomplete digital maps hinder emergency response efforts, leaving vulnerable communities at greater risk during disasters.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 student volunteers joined the Missing Maps initiative to help chart unmapped areas of Myanmar and Thailand following the early 2025 earthquake. Working collaboratively, the volunteers mapped approximately 3,800 buildings. These contributions were instantly shared with humanitarian organizations worldwide, equipping frontline responders with reliable data to accelerate aid delivery, evacuation planning, and resource allocation. This event not only 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.