The Civil Service College launched a new thematic study programme on modern Chinese history under the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, with the first session delivered by Academy of Chinese Studies Executive Director Yau Yat today.

The Thematic Study Programme on Modern Chinese History consists of five sessions, making use of important historical events from the late Qing dynasty to the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC), to examine the endeavours and evolution of the country over the past century in the aspects of politics, economics, society and foreign relations.

Noting that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the PRC, Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung said in an address at the session that civil servants should humbly learn and gain a deeper understanding of Chinese history, comprehend the path of national modernisation, and reflect on their identities, roles and missions in the process of national development.

Mrs Yeung said modern Chinese history is an important journey in shaping the new China, noting that the Chinese nation has undergone monumental historical changes over the past century.

Generation after generation of Chinese people have ceaselessly strived and endeavoured for the country, sustaining the Chinese nation to the present days, she added.

The civil service chief encouraged the programme participants to reflect on their roles and responsibilities as Hong Kong civil servants, inheriting and continuing the great mission of national rejuvenation, while contributing to the country and Hong Kong.

Around 270 middle and senior-level civil servants from more than 40 bureaus and departments attended the programme.