Safeguarding National Security and Peaceful Development: Professor Chan Cheuk-hay Visits Secondary School Campus to Strengthen Students’ Understanding of National Affairs
To further promote national education and deepen public understanding of the national security system, Professor Chan Cheuk-hay, Member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and President of HKCT Institute of Higher Education, was invited to attend the “National Affairs Talk on Campus” thematic seminar organised by the Friends of Hong Kong Association. On 24 February 2026, Professor Chan delivered an insightful sharing session entitled “Territorial Security and Military Development” to teachers and students of Helen Liang Memorial Secondary School (Shatin).
During the seminar, Professor Chan provided an in-depth explanation of the core meaning of territorial security in the context of the current international geopolitical landscape. He emphasised the historical truth that “a strong nation must have a strong military, and only with a strong military can national security be ensured.” He also analysed the country’s remarkable achievements in military modernisation, innovation in military technology, and strategic deterrence.
Through detailed data and vivid examples, Professor Chan illustrated the country’s multi-dimensional national defence system, spanning the sea, land, air, and cyberspace. He also explained the country’s firm position in safeguarding territorial integrity and responding to non-traditional security threats. He pointed out that amid an increasingly complex and ever-changing international environment, only by possessing strong national defence capabilities can the foundation of national security and peaceful development remain firmly protected.
The seminar also explored in depth Hong Kong’s unique position and functions within the national security strategy. Professor Chan stressed that, as an inseparable part of the country, Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability are closely linked to the nation’s economic security and information security. He encouraged young students, as members of the new generation, not only to focus on their studies, but also to enhance their awareness of national security, gain a deeper understanding of the practical significance of “One Country, Two Systems”, consciously practise the national security principles in daily life, and strengthen their sense of patriotism.
The thematic sharing session enabled secondary school teachers and students to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the country’s military development, while effectively strengthening young people’s awareness of national affairs. The lively interaction during the seminar reflected the younger generation’s strong interest in the latest developments in national defence. Professor Chan expressed his hope that, through such professional and in-depth seminars, the higher education and secondary school sectors could work together to build a more solid environment for national security education, and jointly contribute to safeguarding national security and building a stable Hong Kong.
