There's no place like home

These days, learning is not limited to books. We can also broaden our horizons by travelling around the world. This is where school exchange programmes come in.

Our school organises an exchange programme to the mainland. Some students may not think it is very useful because they can't practise foreign languages. They might prefer to go to the US to improve their English.

But while English is very important, especially in Hong Kong, it does not mean that we can't learn anything by going to the mainland.

One of the most important lessons I learned was how comfortable my life in Hong Kong is. Cindy Kwok, STFA Tam Pak Yu College

From the Editor

Thanks for your letter, Cindy. Any sort of travel gives us a fresh perspective on our home. The great thing about studying on the mainland is that you get to practise your Putonghua and learn more about Chinese culture. During these times of economic uncertainty it seems mainland exchange programmes would be a value for money experience that many students will enjoy.

Many people think English or other languages are more important than Putonghua. However, as China continues to look outwards and continues to be an economic powerhouse there is no doubt that Putonghua will be one of the most important languages of future business.

Susan, Editor