26th September 2023 – (Beijing) Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, led a National Day and Professional Exchange Delegation from the Hong Kong Education Sector on a visit to Beijing. The delegation had the opportunity to meet with a state leader and officials from the Ministry of Education, marking a significant milestone in education exchange activities following the resumption of normal travel.
The delegation, now in its 15th cohort, was warmly received by Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, Mr Cai Dafeng, at the prestigious Great Hall of the People. They also held meetings with officials from the Ministry of Education. Dr Choi expressed gratitude for the conscientious arrangements made by the Ministry of Education and the strong support received from the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
During the visit, the delegation had the valuable opportunity to engage in discussions and exchange views with teachers from Changsha and Beijing. The topics covered a wide range of areas, including school operation models, curriculum development, and educational settings. These interactions expanded the professional horizons of the delegation and paved the way for deeper exchanges in the future.
Dr Choi emphasized the importance of President Xi Jinping’s recent reply letter to Hong Kong secondary school students, which encourages students to strengthen their sense of belonging to the country and enhance their skills and abilities. She highlighted the pivotal role of teachers in guiding and supporting students to contribute towards building a better Hong Kong and advancing national rejuvenation. The Education Bureau is committed to promoting national education and cultivating values and talent through various exchange activities, such as the Students Mainland Exchange Programme, Sister School Scheme, and Mainland study tours.
During the visit, Dr Choi also visited Tsinghua University to meet with its leaders, including the Secretary of the CPC Tsinghua University Committee, Professor Qiu Yong, and the Dean of Qiuzhen College, Professor Yau Shing-tung. Additionally, she had the opportunity to interact with Hong Kong students studying at the university.
Prior to the Beijing visit, Dr Choi and the delegation visited Cuiwei Primary School, observing classes and engaging in discussions with teachers. They also held meetings with officials from the Beijing Municipal Education Commission and leaders of Beijing Language and Culture University to discuss educational issues of mutual interest.
The visit will conclude with the delegation attending the flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square tomorrow morning. Dr Choi will also visit Beijing Normal University to explore institutional collaboration on teacher training. The visit serves as a crucial platform for fostering exchange and strengthening national education ties between Beijing and Hong Kong.
Upon their return to Hong Kong in the afternoon, Dr Choi and the delegation will bring back valuable insights and experiences, contributing to the ongoing development of the education sector.