National education appears to be a priority for the new Hong Kong government, with the central government in Beijing urging a need for this to be added to the secondary education curriculum. National education refers to Chinese history and Hong Kong’s role as part of China.

In 2012 the Hong Kong government moved to make national education a compulsory independent subject in schools, which led to widespread protests against the move. From the point of view of the government the intention is to develop in young people a national identity and understand more about the Basic Law and Chinese history and culture. Critics see the move as an erosion of Hong Kong’s identity and autonomy.

Commentary by Steve Corry, British Council Hong Kong (steven.corry@britishcouncil.org.hk):

In recent years student flows from Hong Kong to the UK have largely remained stable, with only a slight decline in the number of tier 4 visa issuances in Hong Kong despite a falling student population. One reason for this is perhaps mistrust of the local education system and the fallout from the last attempt to introduce national education in 2012.

If the new Hong Kong government forces through a move to introduce national education into the curriculum as a compulsory subject, as it appears will happen, this may once again encourage families to seek education options abroad.

Sources:

http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/2105834/hong-kong-leader-reminded-need-strengthen-national-education

http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/2105343/chinese-national-education-set-make-comeback-hong-kong-its