Hong Kong education overhaul places stronger emphasis on national identity in revised curriculum framework
New values education guidelines deepen focus on patriotism, national unity, and understanding of China across all school levels
Hong Kong authorities have introduced a revised education framework that significantly strengthens the emphasis on national identity and patriotic values across the city’s school system, according to newly released curriculum guidance.
The 2026 Values Education Curriculum Framework applies to all government, aided, special, and private schools, and is designed to guide how values education is implemented at different stages of schooling.
Compared with the previous version issued in 2021, the updated framework places a markedly stronger focus on "national identity" as one of its core educational priorities.
Under the new guidelines, pupils in the early years of primary school are expected to gain a basic understanding of national affairs and develop a sense of pride in being Chinese.
As students progress through primary education, they are encouraged to deepen their understanding of national unity and ethnic solidarity, alongside learning about civic responsibility and the importance of safeguarding national security.
The framework outlines 12 key values to be cultivated in students, including perseverance, respect for others, responsibility, integrity, empathy, diligence, filial piety, and unity.
These are presented as part of a broader effort to strengthen character education while embedding a clearer sense of national belonging within the curriculum.
Education authorities say the revised approach builds on earlier reforms introduced in recent years, which already expanded national education content across multiple subjects and increased exposure to themes such as the Constitution of China, the Basic Law, and national security education.
Schools have also incorporated activities such as flag-raising ceremonies and exchange programmes with mainland China as part of efforts to reinforce civic and national awareness.
The updated framework is intended to provide schools with clearer guidance on curriculum planning and implementation, ensuring that values education is consistently delivered across different subjects and school types.
It reflects an ongoing policy direction in Hong Kong’s education system aimed at strengthening students’ understanding of national development and their role within the broader national context.
The 2026 Values Education Curriculum Framework applies to all government, aided, special, and private schools, and is designed to guide how values education is implemented at different stages of schooling.
Compared with the previous version issued in 2021, the updated framework places a markedly stronger focus on "national identity" as one of its core educational priorities.
Under the new guidelines, pupils in the early years of primary school are expected to gain a basic understanding of national affairs and develop a sense of pride in being Chinese.
As students progress through primary education, they are encouraged to deepen their understanding of national unity and ethnic solidarity, alongside learning about civic responsibility and the importance of safeguarding national security.
The framework outlines 12 key values to be cultivated in students, including perseverance, respect for others, responsibility, integrity, empathy, diligence, filial piety, and unity.
These are presented as part of a broader effort to strengthen character education while embedding a clearer sense of national belonging within the curriculum.
Education authorities say the revised approach builds on earlier reforms introduced in recent years, which already expanded national education content across multiple subjects and increased exposure to themes such as the Constitution of China, the Basic Law, and national security education.
Schools have also incorporated activities such as flag-raising ceremonies and exchange programmes with mainland China as part of efforts to reinforce civic and national awareness.
The updated framework is intended to provide schools with clearer guidance on curriculum planning and implementation, ensuring that values education is consistently delivered across different subjects and school types.
It reflects an ongoing policy direction in Hong Kong’s education system aimed at strengthening students’ understanding of national development and their role within the broader national context.
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