Letters | Was life ban on Hong Kong teacher really necessary?

Education

Letters

Published: 6:15am, 20 Oct 2020

Why you can trust SCMP

I refer to your report, “Hong Kong teacher stripped of registration for purportedly spreading ‘independence’ message in classroom materials, lesson plans” (October 6).

I do not support the Education Bureau's move to deregister the primary school teacher over allegedly promoting Hong Kong independence in life education classes last year.

First, the video and work sheet shared with students did not spread any message that Hong Kong should be independent. The questions on the homework asked about the reasons people propose independence, according to what was shown in the video. The video just explained the situation of Hong Kong nowadays and also conveyed how there could be more than one voice in society. Therefore, students were able to learn what freedom of speech is via the teaching worksheet.

Hong Kong school head laments decision to strip teacher of right to work

However, the Education Bureau chose to strip the teacher of his registration without disclosing the full context of the incident, and even warned other teachers who were suspected of such acts.

These actions have caused a chilling effect among educators. It will mean more teachers will be reluctant to speak freely and this will lower the credibility of the bureau.

Sally Tse, Kwai Chung

Teachers still have their rights as Hong Kong citizens

I refer to the article, “More Hong Kong teachers in firing line, as education minister reveals ‘relatively serious’ cases being processed after one is banned for life” (October 10).

Unquestionably, the situation of teachers in Hong Kong is deteriorating. The Education Bureau’s restrictions are tightening, and it has repeatedly emphasised its power to revoke teachers’ licences, even if they do not violate the law. Events such as the reviewing of liberal studies textbooks, advice to remove some books from school libraries and following up on anonymous complaints against teachers are gradually creating an atmosphere of “white terror”.

Whether it is designing teaching materials or speaking in lessons, it is better for teachers to think twice before expressing their opinion to students. They should avoid discussing recent social events in class or including Hong Kong political issues in assignments. However, if this were to actually happen, are these teachers still being professional?

Teachers have a responsibility to help students learn about all kinds of topics, but this is not exclusive of political issues. They are supposed to help students develop critical thinking, not deliberately hide the dark side of society. Sometimes teachers refrain from revealing their stance about controversial issues and leave it to the students to form an opinion on their own. However, that does not keep them safe from being the subject of complaints.

Lam vows more action after Hong Kong teacher removed for promoting independence

There is no denying the working situation of teachers is worsening, and it is crucial to point out that the government and the public should not have excessive requirements of teachers.

Being a teacher is part of their identity but, like every other Hong Kong citizen they, too, have the right to express their opinions. It is worth reflecting on whether Hong Kong has a professional and independent education system that allows the pursuit of a healthy and positive learning environment for future generations.

Crystal Xu, Kwai Chung

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