On 7 July 2023, the EOC held a ceremony to recognise the 60 schools that participated in the Racially Friendly Campus Recognition Scheme launched in March 2023. The Scheme, in commemoration of International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, invited schools to roll out a variety of activities and initiatives that promote racial equality and inclusion on their campuses.

Besides the presentation of trophies to dozens of participating schools, the event also included fireside chats with representatives of three schools, which were selected for their creative activities during the period. All three of them appreciated the Scheme and hoped it could continue to enable more schools and students to participate.

Speaking at the event, EOC Chairperson Mr Ricky CHU Man-kin said, “Ideas of fairness, equality and inclusion can be learnt from a young age, but so can biases and prejudices. Accordingly, schools and teachers have the responsibility to instil positive values and principles in their students, as the lessons they teach will continue to affect the next generation even when they become adults. Through the Racially Friendly Campus Recognition Scheme, the EOC aims to encourage schools to actively engage students on questions around racial diversity and inclusion. The response to the Scheme, both in terms of the number of participating schools, as well as the diversity of the initiatives, has been very positive, further highlighting the importance of this topic for young people.”

The Scheme will expand its scope next year. In addition to fostering mutual respect and acceptance among people of different racial backgrounds, it will also promote the inclusion of people from different regional cultures and places of origin, such as new immigrants to Hong Kong.

• Read the press release