https://www.scmp.com/rss/516394/feed Kathryn Giordano joined the Post in 2023 after working as a producer at FOX23 and an editorial assistant at NBC Sports during the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics and the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. She graduated from Boston College in 2021 with a degree in communication and minors in journalism and international studies. She is also a self-published author. en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. Most people associate martial arts with action-packed scenes from films, violent yet elegant fights and agile combat. Hongkonger Lau Chi-lung is showing the world a different side of martial arts. As a professional wushu athlete, 25-year-old Lau is making a name for himself globally. He recently won two gold medals and one silver medal at the World Wushu... https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3332694/hong-kong-wushu-athlete-showcases-different-side-martial-arts?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3332694/hong-kong-wushu-athlete-showcases-different-side-martial-arts?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 16 Nov 2025 06:00:18 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. While most people would associate martial arts with action-packed film scenes, violent yet elegant fights and agile combat, Hongkonger Lau Chi-lung is showing a different side of martial arts. As a professional wushu athlete, 25-year-old Lau is making a name for himself globally. He recently won two gold medals and one silver medal at the World Wushu Championship,... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3332491/hong-kongs-rising-wushu-athlete-lau-chi-lung-showcases-different-side-martial-arts?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3332491/hong-kongs-rising-wushu-athlete-lau-chi-lung-showcases-different-side-martial-arts?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 16 Nov 2025 06:00:15 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. When beloved Indian pop icon Diljit Dosanjh stopped in Hong Kong in September for his Aura world tour, he invited members of a local dance group to join him on stage in West Kowloon. For the dancers in the group, called Funjabi, this was a chance to perform alongside an actor and singer they had admired for years. “It was an incredible feeling, just knowing we... https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3331927/hong-kong-bhangra-group-spreads-their-love-traditional-indian-dance?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3331927/hong-kong-bhangra-group-spreads-their-love-traditional-indian-dance?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 09 Nov 2025 06:00:14 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. When Diljit Dosanjh – an Indian pop icon with millions of fans around the world – made a stop in Hong Kong in September for his Aura world tour, he invited members of a local dance group to join him on stage in West Kowloon. For the dancers in the group, called Funjabi, this was a chance to perform alongside an actor and singer they had admired for years. “It was... https://www.scmp.com/yp/trending/culture/article/3331629/hong-kong-bhangra-group-funjabi-spreads-joy-traditional-indian-dance?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/trending/culture/article/3331629/hong-kong-bhangra-group-funjabi-spreads-joy-traditional-indian-dance?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 09 Nov 2025 06:00:10 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano AI-powered tools have skyrocketed in popularity, used for everything from automating tasks to generating essays and even serving as a confidante. The tools and chatbots appear practical and convenient for everyday people while also advancing healthcare and scientific research. But while many view artificial intelligence as harmless, its development has not been without its fair share of scandals and ethical concerns. Here are five recent controversies related to AI from this year. British... https://www.scmp.com/yp/trending/ai-and-tech/article/3331493/eye-ai-recent-scandals-and-controversies-chatbots-copyright-law?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/trending/ai-and-tech/article/3331493/eye-ai-recent-scandals-and-controversies-chatbots-copyright-law?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 05 Nov 2025 10:00:18 +0000 Kathryn Giordano,Miya Zhang Kathryn Giordano,Miya Zhang Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written Picture studying abroad. You might think of the excitement of being in a new environment. Or maybe you want to make friends from different cultures and eat unfamiliar foods. But studying abroad can come with many challenges, and it is important to be ready for the ups and downs. It is not easy to be away from your parents and live in a foreign place. Depending on... https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3330865/how-avoid-loneliness-and-handle-anxiety-when-you-study-abroad?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3330865/how-avoid-loneliness-and-handle-anxiety-when-you-study-abroad?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 02 Nov 2025 08:00:10 +0000 Kathryn Giordano,Miya Zhang Kathryn Giordano,Miya Zhang Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. Imagine scrolling through social media and seeing posts from your friends who are studying abroad in another city. It would be easy to feel a little jealous of their adventures and new experiences. However, as exciting as studying abroad may seem, the venture can come with just as many challenges as opportunities. For younger people in particular, being away from... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3330727/experts-explain-common-challenges-studying-abroad-and-how-handle-them?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3330727/experts-explain-common-challenges-studying-abroad-and-how-handle-them?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 02 Nov 2025 06:00:13 +0000 Kathryn Giordano,SCMP Kathryn Giordano,SCMP Deep Dive delves into hot issues in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our easy-to-read articles provide context to grasp what’s happening, while our questions help you craft informed responses. Check sample answers at the end of the page. News: China continues to industrialise while reducing carbon emissions Most countries’ environmentalism involves reducing industrial capacity and activity But China’s unique green revolution is focusing on industrialising while decreasing greenhouse gas... https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3330082/spark-deep-dive-chinas-green-revolution-focuses-industrialising-without-carbon-pollution?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3330082/spark-deep-dive-chinas-green-revolution-focuses-industrialising-without-carbon-pollution?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 26 Oct 2025 23:00:13 +0000 Kathryn Giordano,SCMP Kathryn Giordano,SCMP Deep Dive delves into hot issues in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our easy-to-read articles provide context to grasp what’s happening, while our questions help you craft informed responses. Check sample answers at the end of the page. News: China focuses on industrialising without carbon pollution While most countries’ environmentalism involves deindustrialising and outsourcing labour, China is focusing on industrialising while improving its green infrastructure at the same time The... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3330070/deep-dive-chinas-green-revolution-promises-more-factories-less-pollution?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3330070/deep-dive-chinas-green-revolution-promises-more-factories-less-pollution?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 26 Oct 2025 22:45:09 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. Living amid skyscrapers and concrete, Hong Kong teens Christy Chan Cheuk-lam, Rachel Chen Yin-tung and Lawrence Chan Chun-kit never imagined they would be digging for oysters in a remote fishing village. The three Form Six students attend Queen Elizabeth School Old Students’ Association Secondary School. They were visiting Lau Fau Shan and its oyster farms. They... https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/hong-kong/society/article/3329913/spotlighting-hong-kongs-rural-villages-polyus-design-hatch-awards?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/hong-kong/society/article/3329913/spotlighting-hong-kongs-rural-villages-polyus-design-hatch-awards?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 25 Oct 2025 06:00:14 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. In a room packed with crowds listening to their every word, five of Hong Kong’s best student debaters passionately argued about politics in Latin America. As they discussed social policies to reduce inequality, the teenagers were excited just to be in the semi-final round of the World Schools Debating Championships (WSDC) this summer. “Probably over 100 people... https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3329269/hong-kong-student-debaters-reflect-attending-world-schools-debating-championships?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3329269/hong-kong-student-debaters-reflect-attending-world-schools-debating-championships?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 19 Oct 2025 06:00:18 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. In a room packed with crowds listening intently to their every word, five of Hong Kong’s best student debaters passionately argued about the pink tide movement – a turn to left-leaning politics in Latin America. As they discussed progressive social policies to reduce inequality and increase state control over the economy, the teenagers were excited just to be in... https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/hong-kong/article/3329153/hong-kong-student-debaters-share-how-teamwork-took-them-world-schools-debating-championships?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/hong-kong/article/3329153/hong-kong-student-debaters-share-how-teamwork-took-them-world-schools-debating-championships?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 19 Oct 2025 06:00:16 +0000 SCMP,Kathryn Giordano SCMP,Kathryn Giordano Deep Dive delves into hot issues in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our easy-to-read articles provide context to grasp what’s happening, while our questions help you craft informed responses. Check sample answers at the end of the page. News: Hong Kong sees a drastic increase in the number of hot days Hong Kong has seen record numbers of hot days and hot nights in recent years The city’s developed areas have little to no greenery to combat trapped heat In Sham Shui Po, a densely populated... https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3328340/spark-deep-dive-hong-kong-scorching-little-relief-record-breaking-heat?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3328340/spark-deep-dive-hong-kong-scorching-little-relief-record-breaking-heat?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 12 Oct 2025 23:00:11 +0000 SCMP,Kathryn Giordano SCMP,Kathryn Giordano Deep Dive delves into hot issues in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our easy-to-read articles provide context to grasp what’s happening, while our questions help you craft informed responses. Check sample answers at the end of the page. News: Hong Kong sees drastic increase in number of hot days Hong Kong has seen record numbers of hot days and hot nights in recent years The city’s developed areas have little to no greenery to combat trapped heat In Sham Shui Po, a densely populated urban area... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3328333/deep-dive-hong-kong-scorching-so-why-city-not-using-urban-greenery?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3328333/deep-dive-hong-kong-scorching-so-why-city-not-using-urban-greenery?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 12 Oct 2025 22:45:08 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. When Gabrielle West was younger, she had a beloved book about the solar system. She would read it often, flipping through the pages with delight. Little did she know it would instil her with a love of space. The Hongkonger is now 11 years old. She said her goal is to become an astronaut doctor. “I can go to space and help sick or injured astronauts get better,”... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3328237/hong-kong-students-reflect-out-world-junior-astronaut-experience?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3328237/hong-kong-students-reflect-out-world-junior-astronaut-experience?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Oct 2025 06:00:09 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano About a year ago, Fatjai* fell so far behind in school that he lost the motivation to study. “It was so hard, and I couldn’t follow [along],” said Fatjai, who spoke to Young Post partially through a translator. His school tried to support him, but the teen still found that he could not thrive within Hong Kong’s traditional education system and decided to drop out of school. But that was not the end of the road for Fatjai, whose friends and family encouraged him to follow his own path. “They told... https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/hong-kong/education/article/3327679/why-hong-kong-students-drop-out-school-and-how-support-struggling-pupils?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/hong-kong/education/article/3327679/why-hong-kong-students-drop-out-school-and-how-support-struggling-pupils?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 05 Oct 2025 23:00:13 +0000 SCMP,Kathryn Giordano SCMP,Kathryn Giordano The ink had barely dried on a trade pact between the European Union and Indonesia before the EU proposed another one-year delay to its long-awaited anti-deforestation law. The push drew fierce criticism from environmental groups, who called it a “startling coincidence” that prioritised global trade interests over protecting the Earth. On September 23, the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) was concluded after nearly a decade of negotiation. It is set... https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/asia/article/3327736/eu-delays-anti-deforestation-law-signs-trade-deals-indonesia-and-us?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/asia/article/3327736/eu-delays-anti-deforestation-law-signs-trade-deals-indonesia-and-us?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 05 Oct 2025 08:00:11 +0000 SCMP,Kathryn Giordano SCMP,Kathryn Giordano Deep Dive delves into hot issues in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our easy-to-read articles provide context to grasp what’s happening, while our questions help you craft informed responses. Check sample answers at the end of the page. News: Cracking down on private schools Hong Kong private schools have come under more scrutiny after some were alleged to have run unauthorised courses A proposed code of ‘best practice’ for these schools can be expected by end of year In his yearly policy... https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3326935/deep-dive-new-rules-hong-kongs-private-schools?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3326935/deep-dive-new-rules-hong-kongs-private-schools?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 28 Sep 2025 23:00:16 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano When Laiba Bukhari was growing up in Hong Kong, she wanted to pursue teaching because of the stability it offered. However, over the past two years, the 23-year-old teacher lost her job not once but twice, as low student enrolment led to the closure of her schools. Bukhari, who earned her bachelor’s degree in education from The Education University of Hong Kong this year, worked at New Generation English Kindergarten & Nursery in Tuen Mun from September 2023 until the school closed in April... https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/hong-kong/education/article/3326861/hong-kong-teachers-worry-about-job-security-student-numbers-drop-schools-close?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/hong-kong/education/article/3326861/hong-kong-teachers-worry-about-job-security-student-numbers-drop-schools-close?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 28 Sep 2025 23:00:14 +0000 SCMP,Kathryn Giordano SCMP,Kathryn Giordano Deep Dive delves into hot issues in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our easy-to-read articles provide context to grasp what’s happening, while our questions help you craft informed responses. Check sample answers at the end of the page. News: Cracking down on private schools Hong Kong private schools to come under more scrutiny after some were alleged to have run unauthorised courses A proposed code of ‘best practice’ for these schools can be expected by end of year Hong Kong’s leader has... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3326711/deep-dive-hong-kong-private-schools-under-scrutiny-semi-private-add-foreign-pupils?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3326711/deep-dive-hong-kong-private-schools-under-scrutiny-semi-private-add-foreign-pupils?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 28 Sep 2025 22:45:10 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. It’s fair to say that Chiu Cheuk-pong, a 49-year-old nurse from Hong Kong, has seen a lot of suffering. He has travelled the world helping people in need, from fighting the deadly Ebola virus in Liberia to working with Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. One memory that sticks with him happened at a medical clinic in Yemen, where he met a man and his five-year-old... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3326829/msf-hong-kong-heroes-share-inspiring-tales-yemen-and-gaza-missions?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3326829/msf-hong-kong-heroes-share-inspiring-tales-yemen-and-gaza-missions?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 28 Sep 2025 06:00:21 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. Growing up in Hong Kong as an ethnic minority student who did not speak fluent Cantonese, Sumichhya Gurung did not know about her career options. Because of her background, Sumicchya wanted to make a difference for other youngsters. “[I had] the idea of creating a programme to build exposure for hundreds of other students like myself and showing them what else is... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3325851/empoweru-courses-help-hong-kongs-ethnic-minority-students-thrive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/worksheets/article/3325851/empoweru-courses-help-hong-kongs-ethnic-minority-students-thrive?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 20 Sep 2025 06:00:19 +0000 SCMP,Kathryn Giordano SCMP,Kathryn Giordano Days after some of Nepal’s largest and deadliest protests in recent memory swept through Kathmandu, many of the young demonstrators who had filled the capital’s streets with anti-corruption slogans returned – this time with brooms and trash bags instead of placards and chants. Volunteers, mostly in their teens and twenties, have been seen clearing rubble and burned debris from roads surrounding the federal parliament in New Baneshwar, where violence peaked during the unrest. This clean-up... https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/world/article/3325945/nepal-youth-clean-kathmandu-after-protests-over-social-media-bans?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/world/article/3325945/nepal-youth-clean-kathmandu-after-protests-over-social-media-bans?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 18 Sep 2025 08:00:09 +0000 SCMP,Kathryn Giordano SCMP,Kathryn Giordano Deep Dive delves into hot issues in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our easy-to-read articles provide context to grasp what’s happening, while our questions help you craft informed responses. Check sample answers at the end of the page. News: Life expectancy for women in Hong Kong hits record high The city already has some of the world’s longest average life expectancies, and now women are outdoing men at another record high Life expectancy at birth for women in 2024 was 88.4 years, but only... https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3325335/spark-deep-dive-hong-kong-women-are-living-longer-citys-men-and-rest-world?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3325335/spark-deep-dive-hong-kong-women-are-living-longer-citys-men-and-rest-world?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Sep 2025 23:00:17 +0000 SCMP,Kathryn Giordano SCMP,Kathryn Giordano Deep Dive delves into hot issues in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our easy-to-read articles provide context to grasp what’s happening, while our questions help you craft informed responses. Check sample answers at the end of the page. News: Life expectancy for women in Hong Kong hits record high Life expectancy at birth for women in 2024 was 88.4 years, and 82.8 years for men The city’s population is ageing drastically while the birth rate is plummeting Hongkongers’ impressive life... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3325215/deep-dive-hong-kong-women-expected-live-longer-citys-men-and-rest-world?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3325215/deep-dive-hong-kong-women-expected-live-longer-citys-men-and-rest-world?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Sep 2025 22:45:12 +0000 SCMP,Kathryn Giordano SCMP,Kathryn Giordano The guilt weighs heavily on Jerry* whenever he reflects on his school days in Kota Kinabalu and that “awkward kid” he once tormented. The boy was an easy target for Jerry and his friends, who found amusement in humiliating him by stealing his shoes, pulling down his trousers or beating him. They were only 12 at the time. Yet, more than two decades later, Jerry feels the burden of considering what those moments might have meant for his victim. In Malaysia, abuse, humiliation and violence have a... https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/asia/article/3324999/malaysia-grapples-deepening-school-bullying-crisis?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/asia/article/3324999/malaysia-grapples-deepening-school-bullying-crisis?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Sep 2025 08:00:13 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. When Simon Squibb was 15 years old, he experienced homelessness in the United Kingdom. Now in his early 50s, Squibb is a successful entrepreneur who has earned millions of dollars and dedicated his life to helping young people pursue their dreams. Squibb grew up in England and moved to Hong Kong in 1997 at the age of 24. There, he built companies and invested in... https://www.scmp.com/yp/being-well/personal-growth/article/3325182/homeless-teen-millionaire-mentor-simon-squibbs-inspiring-journey?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/being-well/personal-growth/article/3325182/homeless-teen-millionaire-mentor-simon-squibbs-inspiring-journey?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Sep 2025 06:00:09 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano When 21-year-old Kingsley Ho Chun-ngai wakes up, he does an “acupoint” massage between his eyebrows and behind his ears. This stimulates the body’s life energy to improve blood flow and relax muscles. Meanwhile, 22-year-old Angel Li Sun-yi uses acupuncture to manage stomach aches, menstrual cramps and even nervousness. “I can apply acupuncture because it’s so quick and convenient ... [Stimulating] one point can affect our body,” Li said. Both Ho and Li adopted these habits as Chinese University... https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/article/3324472/hong-kongs-chinese-medicine-students-are-modernising-ancient-traditions?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/article/3324472/hong-kongs-chinese-medicine-students-are-modernising-ancient-traditions?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 07 Sep 2025 23:00:22 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano As soon as 21-year-old Kingsley Ho Chun-ngai wakes up, he does an “acupoint” massage between his eyebrows and behind his ears to reduce puffiness. This is intended to stimulate the body’s life energy, known as qi, to enhance blood flow, relax muscles, reduce stress and promote healing. Meanwhile, 22-year-old Angel Li Sun-yi uses acupuncture to manage stomach aches, menstrual cramps and even nervousness. “I can apply acupuncture because it’s so quick and convenient ... [Stimulating] one point can... https://www.scmp.com/yp/being-well/health/article/3324351/hong-kong-students-bring-traditional-chinese-medicine-modern-age?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/being-well/health/article/3324351/hong-kong-students-bring-traditional-chinese-medicine-modern-age?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 07 Sep 2025 23:00:18 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano As you return to your campus for another school year, you may notice some changes. Perhaps some walls have received a fresh coat of paint. Or maybe you can see the remnants of construction work. While you were away enjoying your summer vacation, your school was likely still bustling, but not with students. Instead, the school’s staff and security personnel were busy enhancing the facilities and maintaining cleanliness. Holiday watch squad During the summer, few students visit French... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/reading-comprehension/article/3323638/behind-scenes-hong-kong-schools-during-summer-break?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learning-zone/study-tools/reading-comprehension/article/3323638/behind-scenes-hong-kong-schools-during-summer-break?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 06 Sep 2025 06:00:09 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Deep Dive delves into hot issues in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our easy-to-read articles provide context to grasp what’s happening, while our questions help you craft informed responses. Check sample answers at the end of the page. News: Older Hongkongers are pushing back retirement due to finances Survey finds that more than half of respondents do not plan to retire at age 65 because of concerns about money Many say they want to continue working to keep their minds active, find a sense of... https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3322563/spark-deep-dive-why-older-hongkongers-are-waiting-retire?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/spark/learning-zone/study-tools/deep-dive/article/3322563/spark-deep-dive-why-older-hongkongers-are-waiting-retire?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 31 Aug 2025 22:45:10 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Deep Dive delves into hot issues in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our easy-to-read articles provide context to grasp what’s happening, while our questions help you craft informed responses. Check sample answers at the end of the page. News: Older Hongkongers are pushing back retirement due to finances Survey finds that more than half of respondents do not plan to retire at age 65 because of concerns about money Many say they want to continue working to keep their minds active, find a sense of... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learn/article/3322560/deep-dive-older-hongkongers-are-waiting-retire-looking-mainland-save-money?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learn/article/3322560/deep-dive-older-hongkongers-are-waiting-retire-looking-mainland-save-money?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 31 Aug 2025 22:45:08 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Before you read: A rise in global demand, poor crop yield and an ageing workforce have led to a global matcha shortage. The price of matcha is expected to rise, and some shops may even remove matcha items from their menus Think about it: How could a matcha shortage affect sales at shops that primarily sell matcha? How might consumers react to higher prices? Has your favourite cafe raised the price of its matcha drinks, or even halted their sale altogether? If so, it is likely part of a growing... https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/world/article/3323618/matcha-mania-leads-global-shortage-price-increases-japan-struggles-meet-demand?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/news/world/article/3323618/matcha-mania-leads-global-shortage-price-increases-japan-struggles-meet-demand?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 31 Aug 2025 02:00:11 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano You are probably no stranger to matcha – and it’s having a real moment in Hong Kong. Found in cafe menus, in baked goods and pastries, and even chocolates, its vibrant green colour and umami flavour are hard to miss. This powdered green tea has seen a real spike in popularity around the globe. Many love its delicious taste and appreciate its many touted health benefits. But this surging demand is one of the main contributors to a global matcha shortage, alongside heatwaves. So what is matcha?... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/lifestyle/food/article/3322461/explainer-what-matcha-where-it-and-why-it-so-popular?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/lifestyle/food/article/3322461/explainer-what-matcha-where-it-and-why-it-so-popular?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:20:31 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Last month, hundreds of students arrived at Hong Kong Polytechnic University for the annual Inter-School Model United Nations Hong Kong (ISMUNHK) conference. For some, it was their first time attending, thanks to a newly introduced scholarship programme. Founded in 2018, ISMUNHK is a student-led organisation that hosts conferences for students across the city who enjoy participating in Model UN. During these conferences, students assume the roles of UN diplomats, negotiating real-world... https://www.scmp.com/yp/article/3321968/hong-kong-students-gain-confidence-ismunhk-scholarships?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/article/3321968/hong-kong-students-gain-confidence-ismunhk-scholarships?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 15 Aug 2025 07:30:09 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano As Hong Kong children face alarming challenges in mental and physical health, two schools have been recognised for their efforts in developing wellness programmes for their students. The annual AIA Healthiest Schools Competition honours schools that prioritise student health in eight parts of the Asia-Pacific region. This year, a primary school and a secondary school in each area were selected to receive a prize of US$50,000 (HK$392,468) to enhance their wellness programmes. Young Post got the... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/news/hong-kong/article/3321255/hong-kong-school-principals-win-award-student-well-being-programmes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/news/hong-kong/article/3321255/hong-kong-school-principals-win-award-student-well-being-programmes?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 10 Aug 2025 04:00:07 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Thousands of students in Hong Kong are anxiously waiting to see if they have been accepted into their dream university programmes. The results for the Joint University Programmes Admissions System (Jupas) will be released on August 6. If you don’t receive the results you were hoping for or if unexpected circumstances arise, remember there are still options available to you – one of which is taking a gap year. Young Post spoke to two individuals who took unexpected gap years; they explained how... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/article/3320372/hong-kong-students-find-growth-gap-years-after-covid-challenges?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/article/3320372/hong-kong-students-find-growth-gap-years-after-covid-challenges?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 05 Aug 2025 02:40:41 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) will soon close a chapter as Albert Wong Hak-keung, its chief executive officer for nearly a decade, is set to retire at the end of July. “I’ve done what I know how to do. And I think that when everything is good, you should change … find new ways [to move forward],” Wong said. Wong has been the head of the vibrant innovation and technology hub since 2016. He has spent his time in the role mentoring young, bright minds and creating... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/lifestyle/features/article/3319433/technology-pervasive-hkstp-ceo-young-people-stem-and-innovative-ai?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/lifestyle/features/article/3319433/technology-pervasive-hkstp-ceo-young-people-stem-and-innovative-ai?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 27 Jul 2025 00:00:13 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano As Hong Kong students receive their results in the city’s two major university entrance exams – Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programme – this summer, they face many pressing choices that could shape their future. Most think about where to continue their studies and which courses to choose, while some consider taking a gap year. The Post examines the pros and cons of such an unconventional option. 1. What is a gap year? A gap is a period during which... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3318473/mind-gap-what-hong-kong-students-need-know-taking-year?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3318473/mind-gap-what-hong-kong-students-need-know-taking-year?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 17 Jul 2025 06:00:14 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano At Po Leung Kuk Ngan Po Ling College in Hong Kong, Smriti Kedia witnessed her mother burst into tears when her near-perfect results in Hong Kong’s university entrance exams came in. “It was just like a big sigh of relief,” said Kedia, who received four 5** and two 5*, the top two grades of a seven-level scale of the exams. She was among 55,000 students who received their Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) results on Wednesday. Kedia, 18, who moved to the city from India at the age of one, is... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3318484/beyond-language-barriers-ethnic-minority-students-shine-hong-kong-dse-tests?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3318484/beyond-language-barriers-ethnic-minority-students-shine-hong-kong-dse-tests?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 16 Jul 2025 12:54:17 +0000 SCMP,Kathryn Giordano SCMP,Kathryn Giordano Despite global outcry over the maths exam, 31 students in Hong Kong have achieved top marks in the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. More than 2,600 Hong Kong students sat the IB exams, a near 20 per cent increase over the past five years, with the results released on Sunday. The IB exams assess students’ knowledge of several core academic subjects and play a key role in their university applications. Kristen Lo Man-yi, 17, was the only student from St Paul’s Co-Educational College to... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/news/hong-kong/article/3317216/ib-2025-31-hong-kong-students-achieve-top-scores-despite-tough-maths-exam?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/news/hong-kong/article/3317216/ib-2025-31-hong-kong-students-achieve-top-scores-despite-tough-maths-exam?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 07 Jul 2025 07:15:04 +0000 Kathryn Giordano,Lynn Zhang Kathryn Giordano,Lynn Zhang At least 31 students in Hong Kong have achieved top marks in the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, even after a global outcry from test-takers over concerns that the mathematics subject was too difficult. More than 2,600 Hong Kong students sat the IB exams, a near 20 per cent increase over the past five years, with the results released on Sunday. The IB exams assess students’ knowledge of several core academic subjects and play a key role in their university applications. Kristen Lo... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3317122/29-hong-kong-students-achieve-top-scores-ib-exam-despite-tricky-maths-section?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3317122/29-hong-kong-students-achieve-top-scores-ib-exam-despite-tricky-maths-section?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 06 Jul 2025 04:44:43 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano In the dim, sterile confines of a prison visiting room, 17-year-old Lauren Chan hands Clara* a sketchbook, their fingers brushing through the divider. Their unlikely friendship, forged through art, stands in contrast to the harsh realities of their surroundings, challenging the stereotypes of prisoners in Hong Kong. “I’m always super happy after I go visit [Clara]. She’s the nicest person ever,” Lauren said. Lauren met Clara, who is in her twenties, while interning with a Hong Kong-based NGO... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/news/hong-kong/article/3316059/volunteers-visit-hong-kong-prisoners-showing-there-are-no-bars-empathy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/news/hong-kong/article/3316059/volunteers-visit-hong-kong-prisoners-showing-there-are-no-bars-empathy?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 29 Jun 2025 23:15:12 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Deep Dive delves into hot issues in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our easy-to-read articles provide context to grasp what’s happening, while our questions help you craft informed responses. Check sample answers at the end of the page. News: How one person can fall victim to loan sharks in Hong Kong High interest rates on loans can lead people to borrow more money to cover their payments Many lending institutions use hard sell tactics or charge hidden handling fees When his grandmother died,... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learn/learning-resources/article/3315981/deep-dive-how-loan-sharks-target-hongkongers-desperate-cash?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learn/learning-resources/article/3315981/deep-dive-how-loan-sharks-target-hongkongers-desperate-cash?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 29 Jun 2025 22:45:12 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Hong Kong teen Darren Lee started his sock company six months ago. He was eager to support the underprivileged artists making designs for his products. But in the past few months, the 19-year-old’s business, Sababu Socks, has felt the effects of the US trade war with China. According to Lee, about 30 per cent of his customers are from the United States, so he has to deal with the country’s tariffs on goods from Hong Kong. Tariffs are taxes on things that are brought into a country from other... https://www.scmp.com/yp/spark/stories/article/3315281/adding-cost-us-tariffs-young-entrepreneurs-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/spark/stories/article/3315281/adding-cost-us-tariffs-young-entrepreneurs-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 22 Jun 2025 23:15:18 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano When Hong Kong teen Darren Lee launched his sock company six months ago, he was eager to support the underprivileged artists behind his products’ designs. But after a few roller-coaster months of the US trade war with China, Lee is facing massive hurdles that are causing him to reconsider his target markets. According to Lee, who is the 19-year-old founder of Sababu Socks, about 30 per cent of his customers are from the United States, meaning he has been dealing with the country’s tariffs on... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/news/hong-kong/article/3315255/small-businesses-big-tariffs-young-hong-kong-entrepreneurs-amid-us-china-trade-war?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/news/hong-kong/article/3315255/small-businesses-big-tariffs-young-hong-kong-entrepreneurs-amid-us-china-trade-war?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 22 Jun 2025 23:15:16 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Every week, Talking Points gives you a worksheet to practise your reading comprehension with exercises about the story we’ve written. When 17-year-old Rexan Wong made a social media post last year about an app he was working on, he had no idea it would gain 400,000 views overnight. The post on X, formerly known as Twitter, showed a demo of Text Behind Image. The image editing tool allows users to easily add and customise words in the background of their photos. Rexan regularly posted about the... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/lifestyle/features/article/3314765/hong-kong-teen-designing-practical-apps-young-people-will-actually-use?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/lifestyle/features/article/3314765/hong-kong-teen-designing-practical-apps-young-people-will-actually-use?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 21 Jun 2025 06:00:12 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Deep Dive delves into hot issues in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our easy-to-read articles provide context to grasp what’s happening, while our questions help you craft informed responses. Check sample answers at the end of the page. News: Labubu, the adorable Chinese phenomenon, is captivating global fans Pop Mart’s cute collectible has boosted the company’s sales Toy is being compared to Hello Kitty thanks to its universal appeal and clever marketing Pop Mart is the company behind the hit... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learn/learning-resources/article/3314259/deep-dive-labubu-mania-sweeps-world-pop-mart-toys-soar-popularity?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learn/learning-resources/article/3314259/deep-dive-labubu-mania-sweeps-world-pop-mart-toys-soar-popularity?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 15 Jun 2025 22:45:10 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Simone Biles has 11 Olympic medals and 30 World Championship wins. She is often considered one of the best gymnasts of all time. Still, even she has to deal with negativity online. “That was hard for me to wrap my head around, [but] since we are competing on a global stage, there is going to be feedback,” Biles, 28, told the crowd eager to hear her speak during her first visit to Hong Kong last month. Reading such harsh remarks can be difficult for her, and replying to them only puts her in a... https://www.scmp.com/yp/learn/learning-resources/article/3313330/olympic-icon-simone-biles-talks-hong-kong-students-about-protecting-your-mental-health?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/learn/learning-resources/article/3313330/olympic-icon-simone-biles-talks-hong-kong-students-about-protecting-your-mental-health?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Jun 2025 23:15:13 +0000 Kathryn Giordano Kathryn Giordano Simone Biles has 11 Olympic medals and 30 World Championship wins. She is considered one of the best gymnasts of all time. Still, even she has to deal with negativity online. “That was hard for me to wrap my head around,” Biles, 28, told the audience during her first visit to Hong Kong last week. Reading such harsh words can be difficult, so she has learned to protect herself. “When I’m not mentally well enough to read the comments, I turn them off or ignore them,” she said. She also reminds... https://www.scmp.com/yp/spark/stories/article/3313329/olympic-great-simone-biles-shares-mental-health-journey-first-hong-kong-visit?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/spark/stories/article/3313329/olympic-great-simone-biles-shares-mental-health-journey-first-hong-kong-visit?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Jun 2025 23:15:11 +0000