Background

Since the announcement and implementation of the National Security Law in Hong Kong on 30 June, 2020, there has been an increasing demand across various industries to promote national education and national security education. The aim is to enhance the awareness of national security and the obligation to abide by the law among Hong Kong residents. The Legislative Council of Hong Kong highlighted in document CB(4)995/2022(01), concerning the promotion of civic and national security education, that "all tertiary institutions have a responsibility to cultivate a younger generation that is socially responsible, possesses a national identity, a sense of belonging to Hong Kong, and an international perspective."

The Hong Kong education authorities stated in Annex 1 of the "Guidelines for Teacher Education Project Framework for Primary and Secondary School Teachers" that upon completion of teacher education training, graduates should abide by the rule of law, respect the legitimate authority of the government and schools. Also, they should have a correct understanding of the Constitution of the People's Republic of China, the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, and the Law of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. They should consciously safeguard national security, social order, and public interests, fulfill their social responsibilities and civic duties, actively support and promote civic education, and cultivate students' correct national identity.

Future teachers must understand their obligation to safeguard national security, social order, and public interests. Their conduct should comply with laws and regulations, and they should serve as role models for their students, helping cultivate law-abiding and responsible citizens.

The Education University of Hong Kong is a leading university in Hong Kong for promoting teacher education strategic development. The university has a responsibility to develop and implement projects and courses that assist future teachers, students, and others in developing a sound understanding of the National Security Law and related legislation.

Against this backdrop, the Education University of Hong Kong established the " National Security and Legal Education Research Centre" and embark on the following initiatives.