Hong Kong set to replace general studies subject in primary schools with humanities curriculum that places greater focus on patriotic education

In a significant shift in educational policy, Hong Kong authorities have announced that the general studies subject in primary schools will be replaced with a humanities curriculum. This change, which will come into effect from the 2025-26 academic year, is aimed at placing a greater emphasis on patriotic education. The new curriculum will focus on the country's geography, history, latest developments, and Chinese culture. The objective is to enhance the awareness of national identity among students. The first batch of students to study the new subject will be those in Primary One and Four in the 2025-26 academic year, with full implementation expected by 2027-28. The revamped humanities subject will also cover a range of topics including sex education, sustainable development, healthy lifestyle, and financial education. A committee will be formed to oversee the new subject and the curriculum framework is expected to be rolled out as early as next month. Alongside the humanities curriculum, a new science subject will also be introduced in the next academic year. This is part of an initiative to boost science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics (STEAM) education. Schools will be provided with one-off grants of around HK$300,000 to upgrade their science facilities. However, the changes have not been without controversy. Critics argue that the school sector was not consulted over the changes and express concerns about the content of the humanities curriculum. They fear that the new subject could be used for rote memorisation rather than fostering a genuine understanding of the country.