LettersPatriotic education in Hong Kong schools would be good for social stability
- Patriotic education can teach young Hongkongers about the mainland, Chinese traditions and opportunities in the Greater Bay Area
Since primary school, I have learnt that Hong Kong is a part of China and about the “one country, two systems” policy. Some may consider this propaganda or brainwashing. Since everyone has different values, I have no comment on whether it is propaganda or not.
However, most countries try to inculcate patriotism at school, as it builds social harmony and allows traditional culture and values to be passed down from generation to generation. Many American students are taught the pledge of allegiance and national anthem at school, even though the US government promotes freedom of speech. Patriotism is the sense of belonging to country. Without it, a society can never be stable.
Moreover, given the cultural conflicts and differences in living standards, values and policies between Hong Kong and the mainland, patriotic education is needed for the Greater Bay Area plan to succeed. Integration will help Hong Kong embrace the nation and prosper as a city.
Patriotic education will also allow students to learn more about Chinese history and the unique traditional cultures of the motherland. Knowing more about Chinese history can also help bridge the generation gap in Hong Kong, where we seem to be forgetting our own traditions and heritage.