The first batch of around 120 district tutors under the National Security Education District Tutor Training Scheme pledged at the scheme’s launch ceremony today, to promote national security in the community and fully assist the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in fulfilling its constitutional responsibility to safeguard national security.

Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing said national security is the fundamental prerequisite for every country's survival and development, adding that the top principle of “one country, two systems” is to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests.

He highlighted that the scheme aims to radiate outward national security education widely and effectively by district tutors.

Also officiating at the ceremony, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung expressed hope that district tutors would leverage their networks to publicise and promote law-abiding awareness, national awareness, a sense of national security and positive thinking in the community.

Mr Tang said this would thereby enhance citizens' ability to think critically and not be misled by soft resistance rhetoric or behaviour, ultimately fostering a safe and stable social environment.

Meanwhile, Secretary for Home & Youth Affairs Alice Mak noted that district tutors can deeply engage with different community groups and convey national security messages in a lively and engaging manner, helping people understand the importance of respecting and safeguarding national security, promoting a conscious effort to safeguard it among all citizens.

District Offices have begun inviting district council members, district organisations and groups across the city to enroll in the scheme. It is expected that by 2025, at least 2,600 district tutors will be trained.

Given that each tutor will disseminate national security messages to at least 30 people within a year, it is anticipated that over 78,000 people will receive messages about safeguarding national security.

Conducted by experienced educators, the course under the scheme runs about four hours in total, including interactive classroom learning and visits to the National Security Exhibition Gallery.