CIVIC education is growing more and more important in our dynamic, democratic society in which people regard human rights and the spirit of law and order as essential. The ''Kowloon City District Civic Education Day'', organised by the Kowloon City District Civic Education Campaign Organising Committee, the Kowloon City District Board and the Kowloon City District Office, took place recently at the Argyle Street Playground. Thousands of residents living in Kowloon City and nearby districts flocked to the venue to participate in the carnival-like event. It was hoped that the colourful atmosphere could promote the development of civic education and that residents would be encouraged to take part in more community activities in the future. Officiating at the opening ceremony, Dr Daniel Tse Chi-wai, chairman of the Committee for the Promotion of Civic Education, pledged that nine more functions to upgrade citizens' civic education awareness would be arranged. ''Hong Kong is experiencing a change in its political structure,'' Dr Tse said. ''To help the public understand these changes, both in theory and practice, civic education must be more widely promoted.'' He hoped participants, after taking part in the activities, would better understand their rights and responsibilities and know more about the spirit of law and order and human rights. Although most of the visitors were children accompanied by their parents, and youngsters who came with friends, a good cross-section of the district was present. Some 14 game stalls were set up by educational and community organisations in Kowloon City. By participating in the games, visitors could challenge their minds, test their civic knowledge and realise their agility. At the centre of the playground, a simple exhibition on human rights attracted attention with its use of cartoon illustrations. Although the games and drawing boards proved a hit with the youngsters, most of them just could not get enough of a large air-filled animal toy, more than three metres high, which they could climb into. For the older children, performances by pop singers Julian Cheung Chi-lam, Linda Wong Hing-ping and Jessica Chau Ching were popular, especially as the day gave them a chance to meet their idols face-to-face. Apart from these events, visitors were also treated to other performances, including a lion dance and taekwando.