Anthem Guidelines Issued To Hong Kong Schools

The government has handed down guidelines to all primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong on how to educate students about the national anthem, following the passage of a law banning any misuse of, or insult to ‘The March of the Volunteers.’

An Education Bureau spokesman said “all primary and secondary schools should provide opportunities for students to learn to sing the national anthem, understand its history and spirit as well as observe the etiquette for playing and singing the national anthem.”

He added that the national flag and the anthem are “symbols and signs of a nation, and should be respected by every citizen.”

“Fostering students' national identity is one of the key learning goals of primary and secondary education.”

All schools must also display both the national and SAR flags, and sing the national anthem when holding celebration activities for New Year’s Day, the July 1st handover anniversary, and National Day.

They are also “strongly advised” to display both flags, and perform and sing the national anthem “on important days and special occasions, such as the first day of a school year, open day and graduation ceremony.”

Students are also encouraged to perform the anthem regularly.