In a recent opinion piece by Kerry Kennedy, the focus on patriotic education in Hong Kong has been highlighted as a significant political priority following the social unrest of 2019. Kennedy discusses how the integration of Chinese values into the education system has evolved over the years, beginning with Tung Chee-hwa's support for such initiatives and continuing through various administrations. Notably, Donald Tsang introduced moral and national education, while Leung Chun-ying's government faced backlash and ultimately shelved national education guidelines in October 2012 [ce8be59b].
The emphasis on patriotic education has intensified in the wake of the 2019 protests, culminating in the National People's Congress passing a patriotic education law in October 2023. This law aims to instill a sense of national pride and loyalty among students, reflecting the government's desire to reinforce social cohesion and stability [ce8be59b]. Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki has advocated for experiential learning approaches over traditional rote memorization, suggesting that engaging students in real-world experiences can foster a deeper understanding of Chinese values [ce8be59b].
However, Kennedy raises concerns about the challenges that lie ahead, particularly regarding teacher preparedness and the assessment of learning outcomes. She emphasizes the necessity for clear expectations and skilled teaching to ensure that the objectives of patriotic education are met effectively [ce8be59b].
This discussion on education comes at a time when the broader narrative surrounding Hong Kong's identity and its relationship with mainland China is evolving. As Cliff Buddle previously noted, the city must navigate its unique cultural identity while adapting to the political realities imposed by Beijing [7acaa428]. The integration of patriotic education into the curriculum is seen as a crucial step in this process, but it also raises questions about the balance between fostering national pride and preserving the diverse perspectives that have historically characterized Hong Kong [432d7ef2].
As Hong Kong continues to grapple with its identity amidst political changes, the implementation of patriotic education will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation's understanding of their place within China and the world [ce8be59b].