Why Hong Kong students’ volunteering may do more harm than good
Students offering to work in developing countries may seem like a win-win, but unclear objectives and poor preparation and support can mean their good intentions actually have negative outcomes
Leaflets and banners promoting service-learning trips to underdeveloped countries are a common sight on the walls of Hong Kong’s universities – recruitment calls to youngsters with the promise of a meaningful and inspiring life experience. The government, NGOs and student groups also publicise these overseas community projects, which are becoming increasingly popular.
Despite their best intentions, however, volunteers may be doing more harm than good to the communities they aim to serve.
“In the wider academic world, there is a lot of discussion about how we should go about helping people living in poverty, from small issues such as how to interact with villagers or organise projects, to larger issues including how to develop the economy,” says Leung Kai-chi, former senior managing officer of I-Care, a civic and social engagement programme of Chinese University.
“But among Hongkongers who are passionate about helping others, this kind of discussion is completely absent. That’s very scary, because you see a lot of people doing inappropriate and silly things, even though they have good intentions.”
Poor needs assessment can result in buildings constructed by volunteers becoming unnecessary burdens on communities that lack the resources to maintain them; condescending attitudes of visiting students may offend the people they are trying to help; and their services can foster a perpetual relationship of reliance. These are just a few examples of how misdirected good deeds can cause problems.