letters

Apply yourself, and you will succeed

There's no doubt that the iPhone is very popular and so is the App Store. The applications it offers are suitable for a number of Apple devices and this attracts more users.

One of the reasons for its success is that many of the applications are free. Once people are 'inside' the store, they have a chance to look at other applications.

I admire Ivan Wan Sai-hong, who quit his job in television production to become a freelance app developer.

People always worry too much and never seek change. They are not willing to make that leap because they fear change. Ivan's decision is right and he is happy now.

Moreover, he has proved that we can make a living by developing apps. Some companies may even have a role for app development. I hope everyone can find their own road to success.

Ng Wai-lok, Ju Ching Chu Secondary School (Tuen Mun)

Children need time to relax

It is common to see many young children struggling with bulging backpacks. This is because of the number of daily assignments they need to finish, resulting in the need to carry heavy books.

I think the education system in Hong Kong is a big burden on students, both physically and mentally. All most of them think about is the exams. Every day after school, they rush home to do their homework or revise for tests. Primary school students should not be burdened with piles of paper.

They should be allowed to go to the park, the beach or the playground after school - they should not have to spend a lot of time studying.

All parents want the best for their children, so it is essential that they have adequate time to relax, which is an important element in the development of a child.

Iris Lai, SKH Li Fook Hing Secondary School

Eat more veggies, fruits, less meat

I am writing to express my opinion on whether youngsters should be vegetarians. I don't think it will do them any harm.

In this modern age, people always talk about being environmentally friendly. I think being a vegetarian can help reduce our environmental problems.

By changing our eating habits we can curb global warming. For example, we can eat more vegetables and less meat. It would be even better to give up meat completely.

The meat industry is one of the leading sources of the greenhouse gases that lead to global warming.

Many people think vegetarians face health problems. This is not true. As long as we eat fruits, vegetables and other nutritious food, we don't have to worry.

There's no doubt that we should have a proper diet, and exercise, in order to lead a healthy lifestyle.

So let's eat more vegetables and fruits, and exercise every day.

Gina Yu, Methodist College

Students need to adapt to the changes

Many teachers have had to change their teaching methods to suit the new curriculum. People are hoping the 3+3+4 system will boost students' all-round development and help them become responsible citizens.

Educators believe the new senior secondary curriculum will enhance students' interest in learning and ease their workload.

From next year, there will only be one public exam instead of two, so there will be less pressure on students, they say.

The government introduced education reforms to ensure less cramming and more analytical thinking by students.

Despite the reforms, grades still play an important role in Hong Kong's education.

Students still try their best to get into university, hoping to get a good job after graduation.

But they should realise that money is not the most important thing in life. Students should behave well and have good moral values which will help them when they become adults.

I think education is not only about enhancing your knowledge. Society is changing and students have to adapt to new concepts and ideas.

Students should not wait for their teachers to teach them everything; they should take the initiative and learn how to tackle problems in their daily lives.

Vivian Wong Wun-kwan, Kit Sam Lam Bing Yim Secondary School