There is also the National Aquatics Centre, or the Water Cube, a colourful structure which took four years to build.

In addition, mainland officials have promised that the air quality will improve and there will be no traffic jams in the capital.

This will ensure the smooth running of the Olympics.

The media is promoting the Olympic spirit. There are many slogans and songs about the Games on TV.

Also, the Olympic torch relay held in countries around the world was quite successful.

It showed that people all over the globe share the same dream.

China is ready for the Olympic Games. Let's support this wonderful event.

Sean Sung-Lai-pang, Tsuen Wan Public Ho Chuen Yiu Memorial College

Caution urged on GM food

Genetically modified (GM) food should be regulated because it could cause health problems, such as allergies.

The term GM food generally refers to crops created for human or animal consumption using the latest molecular biology techniques.

Such products should not be developed on a large scale since there is insufficient research to prove that they are 100 per cent safe.

GM food has genes from other plants or animals inserted into its genetic structure. Critics say this practice could stimulate allergies in humans.

Moreover, many manufacturers do not label their products which might mislead customers.

GM food may help to provide better nutrition to the people, and reduce the use of pesticides in agriculture. But there are risks which cannot be ignored.

The government should set up guidelines for food manufacturers, including the labelling of all products, so the public know what they are buying.

Jaqueline Wong, Methodist College

High-flyers face uncertain future

I read an article 'Should flight attendants have to retire at 45?' in the newspaper last month.

The writer pointed out that forcing cabin crew based in the city to retire at 45 is wrong. I agree.

It is obvious that airlines would like to employ young women as flight attendants in order to attract more customers. But it is unfair that while they have to retire early, pilots and ground staff are allowed to work until the age of 65.

They are facing age discrimination. In other countries, such as Britain, some flight attendants are more than 65 years old. This shows that age does not affect a person's ability to work.

In fact, an experienced crew member may be able to deal with an emergency much better than a young recruit.

In addition, a woman in Hong Kong has an average life expectancy of more than 80 years.

If flight attendants are forced to retire at such an early age, what would they do for the rest of their lives?

It's difficult for middle-aged women to find jobs so they would face a tough life after retirement.

I think the government should legislate against age discrimination in the workplace.

It can protect employees and prevent injustice, leading to a more harmonious society.

Hung Hiu-po, SKH Li Fook Hing Secondary School

A slow but sure way to a healthy life

Many young people eat less in order to lose weight. This can affect their physical and mental development.

It's bad to cut down drastically on your food intake, because it can cause dizziness and other illnesses.

Also, you could lose your temper easily and your concentration could be affected.

In some serious cases, people can suffer from eating disorders, such as anorexia.

The best way to lose weight is to gradually cut down on your food intake and eat healthy meals.

Eating a variety of food is important. Our body needs to absorb different kinds of nutrients.

Exercise is important,

too, to help reduce the accumulation of fat.

Even though this process may take longer than other weight-loss programmes, it is safe and effective.

So let's do more exercise and lead a healthy lifestyle.

Bertha Lo

HK's money mania

Hong Kong is an affluent city where people work hard and earn a lot of money.

They are also very materialistic and believe that money can solve all problems.

Do you think you can 'buy' love from your family and friends? I don't think so.

Many women want to marry a rich man, but this kind of relationship won't last long.

Love is not like buying a car. It's about caring, sharing and patience.

A Chinese idiom says: 'Friendship is immortal.' You can make friends with a person who has similar interests.

When you encounter problems, your friend will help you and vice versa. Most importantly, you can share your sadness and joy with your friend. Even if you are a billionaire, you would feel lonely if you didn't have any friends.

Many Hongkongers are not happy because they put too much emphasis on money.

I think spiritual satisfaction is more important than material pleasures.

Alexander Lo, Methodist College