Skip to main content
Start main content

Migration and Communication Hub: Empowering migrants through language, digital literacy, and health communication

17 Jul 2025

Others

Indonesian migrant domestic workers joining the English training program

Digital literacy training with the Indonesian Consulate General in Hong Kong S. A. R.

Filipino migrant domestic workers participating in health communication awareness program


Effective communication is crucial for social integration and personal growth in an increasingly interconnected world. The Migration and Communication Hub, an initiative by faculty members of the Department of English and Communication at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, is dedicated to empowering migrants by enhancing their language, digital literacy, and health communication skills. In collaboration with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and grassroots organizations, this initiative offers evidence-based resources and training to assist migrants in navigating new environments, accessing opportunities, and confidently participating in society.

Language: A Key to Integration

Language is a powerful tool that can transform the lives of migrants. As they transition from one culture and place to another, the ability to communicate effectively in English becomes a form of linguistic capital. This proficiency facilitates social integration and opens doors to educational and economic opportunities. The Hub offers language courses tailored to the lived experiences of migrant workers, recognizing that migration can result in both the loss and gain of language resources. By strengthening English proficiency, migrants can access health resources independently, engage in bureaucratic processes effectively, and enhance their well-being. 

Digital Literacy: Bridging the Digital Divide

In today’s digital age, technology and language are closely interrelated. Digital literacy is essential for migrants to engage with online platforms safely and effectively. The Hub’s digital literacy programs equip migrants with the skills to use social media, access welfare and healthcare systems, and pursue online educational opportunities. These skills are vital for building new social networks and maintaining connections with communities in their countries of origin. Our digital literacy programs are specifically designed to address identified disparities in digital utilization among migrant communities. 

Health Communication: Navigating Healthcare Systems

Health communication is another critical focus area for the Hub. Migrants often face challenges in accessing healthcare due to language and cultural barriers. Developing communication skills in healthcare ensures migrants can express their needs, understand medical information, and make informed decisions. The Hub emphasizes the importance of accessing accurate health information from reliable sources, as misinformation can lead to delayed diagnosis, completion in preventable health issues, and poor prognosis. Migrant workers in Hong Kong can utilize their English language and digital literacy skills to navigate the reliable and integrated health information system provided by the Hospital Authority. Our current work focuses on health literacy amongst migrant domestic workers, including women with cancer. 

Please visit our Facebook page for more information and updates. 


Your browser is not the latest version. If you continue to browse our website, Some pages may not function properly.

You are recommended to upgrade to a newer version or switch to a different browser. A list of the web browsers that we support can be found here