Schools hold flag-raising ceremonies to celebrate 75th anniversary of founding of People’s Republic of China (with photos)

     October 1 of this year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, which is an important milestone in the development of the country. To celebrate the National Day, the Education Bureau (EDB) encouraged all primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong, as well as kindergartens where appropriate, to conduct a national flag-raising ceremony with the playing and singing of the national anthem before the commencement of lessons today (September 30). This aims to enhance students' sense of belonging to the country, promote patriotism and foster national pride.

     The Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing; the Acting Secretary for Education, Mr Sze Chun-fai; and the Permanent Secretary for Education, Ms Michelle Li, attended the national flag-raising ceremony this morning at TWGHs Tsoi Wing Sing Primary School, Yan Chai Hospital Law Chan Chor Si College and St Margaret Mary's Catholic Kindergarten respectively.

     At the national flag-raising ceremony of TWGHs Tsoi Wing Sing Primary School, Mr Cheuk said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is organising a series of vibrant celebratory activities this year with the theme of "Love our Country, Love Hong Kong, Love our Community". One significant event is the flag-raising ceremony and the playing and singing of the national anthem by primary and secondary schools, as well as kindergartens in Hong Kong today. Together with various sectors of society, heartfelt congratulations are offered on National Day, adding significance to the National Day celebrations.

     Mr Sze visited Yan Chai Hospital Law Chan Chor Si College. During the flag-raising ceremony, he said that the EDB has been adopting a "multipronged and co-ordinated" approach to promote national education. Through school curricula and students' Mainland exchange and study tour activities, the EDB has helped schools guide students to integrate reading with travelling, thereby gaining a comprehensive understanding of the country and fostering a sense of national identity.

     Ms Li attended the national flag-raising ceremony held at St Margaret Mary's Catholic Kindergarten. She encouraged students to learn more about the country, study hard, and take pride in being Chinese. She emphasised that contributing to the development of the country and Hong Kong when they grow up would be the best birthday gift to the country.