Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing and two education officials today attended the national flag-raising ceremonies held at three schools to celebrate National Day.

The Education Bureau noted that 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 country's development. 

To celebrate the occasion, the bureau 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 lessons commenced today.

The aim of such an arrangement is to enhance students' sense of belonging to the country, promote patriotism and foster national pride, the bureau emphasised.

At the national flag-raising ceremony of Tung Wah Group of Hospitals (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".

He pointed out that 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, he stressed.

While Acting Secretary for Education Sze Chun-fai visited Yan Chai Hospital Law Chan Chor Si College to attend its flag-raising ceremony, he highlighted that the Education Bureau has been adopting a multipronged and co-ordinated approach to promote national education.

He also explained that through school curricula and students' Mainland exchange and study tour activities, the bureau 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.

Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary for Education Michelle Li attended the national flag-raising ceremony held at St Margaret Mary's Catholic Kindergarten and encouraged students to learn more about the country, study hard, and take pride in being Chinese.

Moreover, she added that contributing to the development of the country and Hong Kong when they grow up would be the best birthday gift to the country.