Talking points: What are your thoughts on making a mainland study tour part of the curriculum?
Hate it when you can't talk back? Well, you can with Young Post. Have your say and share with students around Hong Kong.
Naz Iraj, 16, St Margaret's Girls' College, Hong Kong
I think it's a great idea. It will be a wonderful opportunity to discover Chinese culture, learn new skills and enhance your knowledge about the country. In addition, a trip to the mainland will help locals gain a better understanding about the differences and similarities between Hongkongers and mainlanders.
Mukhjot Bajwa, 15, St Margaret's Girls' College, Hong Kong
A visit to the mainland can help Hongkongers strengthen their national identity and sense of belonging to their motherland. They can also explore new places and learn about different cultures and people's daily lifestyle. Apart from these benefits, the trip could help locals boost their Putonghua skills.
Wong Yin-ching, 17, Caritas St Joseph Secondary School
It's a good learning experience for secondary school students. Hong Kong is an affluent society, so a lot of student have almost everything they want. But if they go to the mainland, they will realise that happiness cannot be taken for granted. However, I don't think a mainland study tour should be a part of the curriculum. Students should be free to choose where they want to go for their study tour.
Charlotte Chong Hoi-kwo, 16, CCC Mong Man Wai College
There's no doubt that such a visit will be beneficial for Hong Kong students - they will be able to learn a lot about the country. However, I am worried because the central government has been trying to promote national education among local youngsters. For example, take the Hong Kong Army Cadets Association. Though the association claims it was set up to strengthen cultural exchange, it is actually trying to instill patriotism in young Hongkongers. Similarly, a study trip to the mainland could be used to "brainwash" us. That's why I disagree with such an acitivity being part of the school curriculum.
Rheneas Choi, 17, Shatin Tsung Tsin Secondary School
I strongly disagree with the idea. I think a mainland study tour offers the government a good opportunity to "brainwash" our younger generation. Since the national education curriculum was scrapped after huge protests in 2012, the government has been using other methods to promote patriotism among young people in Hong Kong. We should refuse to take part in such a trip. It will cost a huge amount of money and effort, so I think it's not worth it.
Tell us what your thoughts are on making a mainland study tour part of the curriculum in the comment box below.
In our next Talking Points, we'll discuss: How has the influx of mainland shoppers/visitors affected your life?
We are now accepting your answers for this new topic. To take part, e-mail your answer with your name, age and school name, plus a high-res photo of yourself (no less than 1MB), to [email protected] by Monday lunchtime next week.