Hou Kong Middle School (Primary Section) hosted its on-campus “Our Classic Summer” event on Rua de Afonso de Albuquerque on Thursday.
Chan Pou Sin, the school principal, told the Post that the annual event reflects the school’s consistent commitment to its founding principle of loving the country and loving Macau.
“Hou Kong” is one of Macau’s ancient names.
By enabling students to learn about the cultures of China’s various ethnic groups and to gain a deeper understanding of the Chinese nation, Chan said, the event aims to foster emotional resonance among them.
Chan noted that the event also incorporates elements of science and technology, including robotics showcases and displays of innovative inventions, showcasing the globally minded outlook of Macau’s new generation. Combining patriotic education with a focus on moral guidance and ability development, the event aims to cultivate students’ comprehensive skills, according to the principal.
Rebecca Choi Keng Man, the director of the school, said the event serves as a showcase of each year’s educational and teaching achievements. Each subject integrates the core of ethnic culture into Hou Kong’s school-based curricula, presenting it through various forms such as recitations, English presentations, technology demonstrations, and artistic performances, among others, Choi said.
The school upholds the philosophy of “not leaving a single one behind”, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to participate in the annual event. This whole-school approach helps cultivate self-confidence, a sense of patriotism, and a strong sense of the Chinese national community from an early age, Choi said.
Before the event started, a robot arrived at the school to share the stage for a performance with Hou Kong’s robot dogs. Technology illuminated the classics, which made their performance both a smooth and spectacular success. That robot was generously provided on loan by ES Intelligence Technology Limited, according to the school.
English vice panel head Carol Xu Tianru explained that her whole-school cross-curricular project, themed “Taste of China: One Bite, One Nation”, used cuisine as an entry point. It allowed students to research traditional dishes from various regions and present their findings in English. She gave an example of where students likened Xinjiang naan bread to a “Chinese pizza”, finding common ground between Chinese and foreign cultures, thereby fostering a global perspective.
Meanwhile, General Studies panel head Evan Tam Ka Seng said he integrated technology into the ethnic theme. Performances were used to demonstrate how ethnic minority groups utilise technology to improve their lives – for instance, by showcasing fully automated terminals.
Visual Arts panel head Lei In Peng said that she collaborated with the Chinese calligraphy teachers to design outfits made from calligraphy paper, which students helped manufacture and wear on the catwalk. Lei said she firmly believes that calligraphy needs not be confined to be displayed on walls but can be presented through clothing. Students were amazed to see their own work become wearable art, realising that art has no boundaries. She emphasised that aesthetic education cultivates an appreciation for beauty from a young age.
Cheang Si Wan’s mother and Leong Ka In’s mother told the Post that since their children took part in the ethnic-themed gala performance, the latter had become more confident and outgoing. The children were more willing to talk about their school experiences at home, which has strengthened parent-child relationships, both mothers said. They also said that the school provides a diverse platform that allows children to encounter different ethnic cultures, fostering inclusivity and an appreciation for differences, while building a collective identity within the Chinese nation. They also emphasised the importance of home-school cooperation, noting that while the school nurtures talents and skills, the family provides guidance on emotions and values.
Grade Six student Carson Lei Ka Seng said he took part in the technology performance, where he was responsible for programming but also had to overcome the challenge of a dance during the opening. Through the experience, he came to appreciate that ethnic minorities use technology to improve their lives. He added that while different ethnic groups have different customs, they share the same roots and should embrace and protect one another.
Wu Chio Chi, Mio Cheng Iao and Hoi Cheng I who took part in the ethnic costume fashion show wore outfits made from Chinese calligraphy paper and cardboard, designed under the guidance of their art teacher. They said they felt proud and happy wearing the costumes, despite feeling slightly nervous. The trio also said they believe that calligraphy-paper outfits are an effective way to promote Chinese culture, adding that they are willing to participate in similar activities in the future.
This group photo was taken during the annual event “Our Classic Summer” hosted by Hou Kong Middle School (Primary Section) on its campus on Rua de Afonso de Albuquerque on Thursday. – All photos courtesy of Hou Kong Middle School
