Hong Kong students share insights on mental health from global education forum

The OECD Global Forum on the Future of Education and Skills 2030 had about 500 students and teachers from over 20 countries and regions.

One Hong Kong representative, 15-year-old Yap

Hong-bin highlighted how much his team learned while talking to students from around the world.

“I met students from Japan, Ukraine and China, and it was fascinating to see how their schools tackle stress and anxiety,” he said. “The OECD summit showed us how different schools promote well-being, which could inspire new ideas for Hong Kong.”

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Form Five pupil Khiatani Damien Vian, 16, explained how the team worked with other delegations.

The Hongkongers interviewed students from other schools about their views on well-being. They also joined discussions to explore mental health programmes around the world.

Form Four student King Mo Sen Yik-fan shared what he learned from how other countries support students.

“Japanese schools foster teacher-student bonding through a concept of togetherness,” the 15-year-old said. “Shared experiences like field trips and workshops not only broaden students’ horizons but also strengthen relationships with their teachers.”

What stood out to Form Five pupil Gordon Yu Tsz-hang was the use of traditional crafts to foster well-being.

“Some Japanese schools introduce origami sessions to help students relax. I believe similar activities could be beneficial in Hong Kong,” the 16-year-old said.

King also reflected on how students had different concerns based on where they were from.

“For Ukrainian students, simply having a stable shelter is their main concern. Meanwhile, most Hong Kong students are primarily focused on getting high scores ... which creates intense pressure,” he said.

“In Portugal, we met a student whose teachers encouraged them to focus on the present instead of setting overly high expectations for themselves.”

The delegation also used the forum to reflect on mental health concerns in Hong Kong.

“Given the rising concern over student suicides in Hong Kong, schools must explore more ways to support students’ mental health,” Gordon said.

He pointed to mindfulness sessions as a promising way to help pupils. He also shared how his school’s cat shelter helped his peers to relax and learn about responsibility.

To address career-related stress, King suggested workshops to help students explore potential jobs.

“Many students are expected to pursue traditional career paths like medicine or law, but there are alternatives,” he said.

“Our school partnered with the Institute of Vocational Education (IVE) to offer career planning workshops. This helped students explore fields like hazardous materials management – an uncommon but viable career path.”

It is important to plan for the future, but King said students should also explore other interests they enjoy.

“Encouraging students to explore passions beyond academics – like art, sports or creative expression – could enhance their quality of life,” he said.

• Reflect: What is something special that your school does to encourage your well-being?

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