OpinionHong Kong’s education policy must reflect the innovative future it seeks
The city aims to be a leader in the creative and innovation industry, but how much of that vision is translated into its schools?
“What if?” and “but why?” are questions I’ve been bombarded with by young schoolchildren. I’m often stumped, but I’ve learned to avoid giving the “worst” answer possible – “that’s the way it is” – because who’s to say things can’t change.
Children’s ability to challenge the status quo, questioning norms and authority, forces us to re-examine our assumptions on why things must be the way they are. Adults are often too impatient to experiment with the alternative. We rush through our to-do lists with no time for “what ifs” and the luxury of possibilities.
Industry experts attribute this to the rise of AI, among other things. Michael Chau, professor in innovation and information management at the University of Hong Kong business school, said: “It is interesting as AI was written by programmers, but now AI can write its own programmes.”
It may be interesting but it’s also a reason for anxiety. What seems irreplaceable today may be replaceable tomorrow. We must think outside the box. What we should be asking is whether our educators are truly preparing our children for the future.
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