Globally ready: ESUHK’s programmes that turn English into numerous opportunities
As Hong Kong deepens its integration into the Greater Bay Area, English proficiency matters even more: it helps Hong Kong preserve its role as a global commercial and innovation centre and act effectively as a bridge between mainland China and the rest of the world.
English is more than a subject on the timetable — in Hong Kong it is the passport to global classrooms, international careers and confident civic participation. The English‑Speaking Union (Hong Kong) (ESUHK) empowers students and the public to seize those opportunities through writing, debate, public speaking and practical language programmes that build clarity, critical thinking and leadership. By turning classroom learning into real‑world communication skills, ESUHK helps Hong Kong people not only shine on the world stage but also shape a vibrant, outward‑looking city.
From primary pupils entering poetry and short‑story competitions to secondary students vying for top prizes in English public‑speaking contests, and on to tailored programmes for adults seeking to enhance their proficiency, ESUHK has served Hong Kong for 25 years, cultivating confident, articulate and eloquent English speakers across the city.
Reflecting on the changes that prompted a group of volunteers to establish the educational charity in 2001, ESUHK’s Chairperson, Margaret Leung, says effective use of the language matters as the city aims to retain its status as an international commercial and innovation hub and as a connector between mainland China and the world.
“The concerns about declining standard of oral English after 1997, dwindling population of English‑speaking expatriates, and the growing influence of Putonghua helped spur local initiatives to keep English vibrant in schools as well as in the wider society,” she notes. “By curating engaging activities and sustained programmes, we groom locals to be proficient and globally minded English speakers.”
ESUHK is part of a global network spanning more than 50 countries, offering members opportunities to participate in international events. “Our mission is to promote international fellowship and understanding with English as the medium,” Leung says.
In close partnership with SCOLAR (the Standing Committee on Language Education and Research), ESUHK provides and supports a diverse range of activities that target local students as well as the wider public who learn English as a second language.
These activities include school‑based programmes such as the popular “Reader’s Theatre” for S1 to S4 students, who perform scenes from well‑known literary works; “Debating Workshops” designed to develop persuasive speaking skills; and “English‑in‑Action,” a series of interactive sessions aimed at enhancing oral proficiency.
Other initiatives that attract enthusiastic participation from young learners include the “Creative Writing Festival,” co‑organised with the Hotung Mills Education Foundation. “It promotes creative writing of short poems and stories by students between 9 to 12 years old,” Leung says.
Among the high‑profile English public‑speaking contests co‑organised by ESUHK is the HKFYG English Public Speaking Contest. “We have supported this contest for more than 20 years and have sent winners to London to compete in the ESU International Public Speaking Competition (ESUIPSC) and to meet peers from around the world,” Leung explains. “That week in London is both competitive and culturally enriching — you can call it a scholarship week.”
Benjamin Calvin Wu, a student from Diocesan Boys’ School who reached the top six at the IPSC in 2024, fondly recalls his whirlwind visit to London. As contestants explored the capital together, bonds of friendship were forged. “We collaborated to make the entire experience more fun,” he says, adding that the trip exposed him to a rich variety of public‑speaking styles.
In addition to the HKFYG contest, ESUHK supports a wider ecosystem of English speech activities across the city. “We sponsor the Hong Kong Schools Music and Speech Association and support China Daily on the “21st Century Cup” Hong Kong region,” Leung notes. “The local ESU often provides sponsorship, adjudicators, logistical support, and liaison services for teams aiming to compete internationally.” These partnerships create more pathways for talented students to gain exposure and experience.
Leung believes the standard of performance at public‑speaking contests — in both prepared and impromptu rounds — has risen noticeably over the years, a trend she attributes to broader preparation and deeper intellectual engagement. Public speaking cultivates a suite of transferable skills that extend well beyond language. “Contestants learn to research widely, synthesise complex ideas, and present them with conviction,” she says. These abilities prepare students for university interviews, careers, and civic life. Even for those who do not win, the discipline of preparing and performing builds resilience and confidence that will last a lifetime.
Technology has become part of contestants’ preparation, and Leung sees AI‑powered tools as a useful supplement when used thoughtfully. “Students should write their own scripts and use AI for spell checking, tone analysis, and objective feedback on presentation elements such as pace and eye contact,” she advises. “When AI systems are calibrated to the contest’s judging criteria — content weighting, presentation, and audience engagement — they can provide targeted, measurable guidance.” Used properly, these tools act like a tough but fair coach, pointing out where to raise your voice or be more concise.
Because schools are the primary incubators for public‑speaking talent, Leung urges institutions to embed speaking practice into the curriculum and to appoint dedicated coaches. “A school that identifies and mentors a cohort of students across forms creates an atmosphere where public speaking is valued and practised,” she explains, citing programmes that pair senior mentors with juniors at top schools. Parents, she adds, provide essential practical and emotional support: “Encouragement at home — practical help with logistics and emotional backing — lets students focus on improvement rather than distractions.”
We are never too old to brush up our English proficiency. For the general public, ESUHK offers a broad suite of services to promote practical English skills: “English‑in‑Action” provides conversational practice for businesspeople, teachers and students; “Meet at the ESU” which engages people from a diverse professional and cultural backgrounds in a monthly play‑reading programme and creates informal, social opportunities to use English; and the “Distinguished Speaker Series” delivers informative talks, among other offerings.
By combining rigorous teaching and learning, thoughtful use of technology, strong school and family support, and a broad range of engaging activities for all ages, ESUHK helps ensure that Hong Kong people can speak with clarity, confidence and substance — preparing them for a global future, Leung concludes.