The quality of science education in Hong Kong is declining. This decline is evident in the deteriorating performance in international assessments like PISA and the continued decrease in student interest in pursuing science. Issues such as an outdated syllabus, excessive reliance on rote learning and exam preparation, and the loss of experienced teachers contribute to this problem. Many teachers have lost touch with cutting-edge research since graduating from university. Consequently, many students miss the joy and excitement of scientific discoveries in their science education. There are numerous so-called STEM activities in Hong Kong; however, many of these initiatives contain little genuine science content. Instead, they tend to focus on commercialization and applications, detracting from the true wonder and inspiration of scientific research and discoveries.

We propose an innovative program that connects secondary school science teachers and selected students with world-class research projects. This program allows participants to engage with leading researchers at top-tier research facilities, enabling them to experience firsthand how scientific research is conducted. Many recent scientific discoveries, such as the first black hole photo and the discovery of the Higgs boson, offer valuable educational opportunities by showcasing the excitement of scientific exploration and illustrating the strong connections between the science students learn and these advancements. However, a crucial first step is to improve teachers’ understanding of these recent developments. We aim to establish a partnership between motivated teachers and university researchers, providing engaging STEM activities that showcase exciting science content and utilize research data when applicable. In 2024, we successfully piloted the first-ever CERN Teacher Program for Hong Kong, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from the twenty-six secondary science teachers who participated. We plan to organize similar programs in 2025 and 2026. The theme for the 2025 program will focus on Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Cosmology, while the 2026 program will concentrate on Particle Physics.

Reinvigorate Science education in Hong Kong.
Establish a partnership between motivated teachers and university researchers, providing engaging STEM activities.
Stimulate students to engage deeply with relevant scientific concepts and enhance their scientific communication skills.
Create a network of science enthusiasts among students from different schools.
Foster public appreciation for the museums' valuable exhibits, thereby achieving broader science outreach.

Science teachers + students: through enhanced science education.

The public: through the enhanced docent services at the Hong Kong Science Museum and Hong Kong Space Museum.

2025

Education