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National education in Hong Kongi

The Hong Kong government has sought since 2007 to introduce "national education" courses to strengthen "national identity awareness" and nurture patriotism towards China. The programme has drawn public opposition in recent years, with many in Hong Kong seeing it as a brainwashing attempt by the Chinese Communist Party to suppress dissent.

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  • Programme will focus on how Chinese survived difficult times with help of ‘will to succeed’ and also on city’s role and contribution to ‘national rejuvenation’
  • Course, to be offered to middle and senior-level government workers, part of broader ‘mindset building’ push

Authorities published new teaching materials for use in primary and secondary school English classes in run up to National Security Education Day earlier this week.

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‘We want the new generation to really appreciate our Chinese culture, our Chinese history and also the contemporary developments of our country,’ city leader says.

NGOs now scored on efforts to support official policies, such as events promoting national education, in change to Social Welfare Department funding allocation system.

‘Singing a little soft’, Education Bureau’s annual report says of national anthem in schools, but praises ‘solemn’ behaviour of most at flag-raising ceremonies.

Readers discuss the importance of seeing both sides for conflict resolution, striking a balance between development and wildlife protection, investors’ expectations, and the optimal temperature in MTR train cabins.

Readers discuss the downsides to the Octopus card’s wild success, poor attendance at a World Cup qualifying match, and a fun way to teach Chinese history.

Education minister Christine Choi says authorities considering proposal to assess pupils using quizzes or by having them draw pictures in new humanities course.

Choy Sai-hung, an architect of new humanities curriculum, says only about 10 per cent of course dedicated to national security and development of Communist Party.