LettersHong Kong school curriculum must get with the program

TikTok and Instagram have been among the hottest apps in recent years. Both apps, and many others, are developed using a programming language called Python.

Python is famous for the simplicity of its syntax and for the ability to complete complex tasks in a millisecond. Compared to other programming languages, such as JavaScript, C++ and Pascal, Python is more widely used in applications beyond web development, such as in artificial intelligence or audio editing.

In the information age, demand for Python programmers is growing alongside the new applications for machine learning that are being developed. Python programming is a general-purpose skill used in almost all fields, including scientific and mathematical computing, finance and trading, and system automation. Those with a grasp of Python would have more opportunities, especially in the rapidly developing data science industry.

I joined a Gifted Education Fund programme on Python programming and AIoT (artificial intelligence of things) run by City University last year. Many seem to believe only gifted students can learn Python. It is neither a compulsory topic in secondary school nor included yet in the Diploma of Secondary Education syllabus for information and communications technology, although there are plans for its inclusion from 2025.

Those opting for computer-related subjects at university would definitely encounter Python. Being familiar with it could give students an edge when applying to university.

Learning Python during secondary school would not only pave the way for future careers but also allow students to enhance their creativity. Till Python becomes part of the school curriculum, though, young people interested in the programming language could look up free online courses and resources on Google Colaboratory and Github.