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Some non-government organisations have requested the Education Bureau establish Chinese history as one of the core subjects of the Hong Kong schools curriculum.
From 1842 to 1997 Hong Kong was a British colony. As a result, today, many students do not know Chinese history, and many refuse to study the subject.
However, I believe Hong Kong students should learn more about Chinese history, firstly because they are Chinese.
Many of them find history a boring subject that relies on the need to memorise dates of past events and write lengthy essays about them. But we have a responsibility to know more about our nation's history.
Young people should learn about how our country developed into what it is today.
By doing so they can share their knowledge of our national heritage with foreigners. They can also apply this knowledge in daily life. Hong Kong society focuses on economic development and, as a result, most senior students choose to study economics. However, I think Chinese history is more important. Lessons from history can help prevent us making the same mistakes as in the past.
China was a very strong country in ancient times. While the Qing dynasty faded after almost 300 years the British started the Industrial Revolution and, during the 1700s and 1800s become a European power and stronger than China.
Students can gain critical thinking through studying Chinese history, and boost their sense of national identity. Through this study we can become more aware.
Last year, the Hong Kong government had plans for a policy of national education. However, many citizens protested against it. Its aim was to boost the national identity of Hong Kong students. But I think Chinese history could be chosen instead of national education.
When students study Chinese history, they will learn about the achievements of the Chinese nation, such as China becoming a nuclear power in 1964. These achievements can boost their national identity.
The Education Bureau should establish Chinese history as one of the core subjects of the Hong Kong education system, given the many advantages it can bring.
Darren Fung, Kwun Tong


History study boosts national identity

Darren Fung says Hong Kong students should learn more about Chinese history. Photo: Felix Wong

Opinion

Letters

Some non-government organisations have requested the Education Bureau establish Chinese history as one of the core subjects of the Hong Kong schools curriculum.
