Your Voice: Dinosaur fossils, reforming the education system (short letters)

I am writing to express my excitement regarding the recent discovery of dinosaur fossils on Port Island, Hong Kong, as reported in your article. As a biology student, this remarkable finding fascinates me and highlights the importance of palaeontology in understanding our planet’s history.

The fact that these fossils date back to the Cretaceous period, about 145 to 66 million years ago, is astounding. It is a thrilling reminder that Hong Kong, a city known for its rapid development, also holds secrets of ancient life beneath its surface.

This discovery significantly contributes to our knowledge of palaeoecology in Hong Kong, and I am eager to learn more about the types of dinosaurs that once roamed this area.

The planned public display and talks will undoubtedly inspire many young people, including myself, to delve deeper. It’s encouraging to see that our city is becoming part of the global conversation about palaeontological discoveries.

I hope this will spark more interest in science among students and the general public. I look forward to visiting the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre exhibition.

‘Lucky discovery’ as dinosaur bone fossils found in Hong Kong for the first time

Kobe Chan Pak-lam, Ma On Shan Tsung Tsin Secondary School

I firmly believe that Hong Kong’s high-pressure education system is a more pressing reason for school closures than the city’s declining birth rate. More parents are choosing to move abroad for better opportunities for their children’s growth.

Our education system focuses heavily on testing and screening students, pushing them to work hard for future careers. This approach overlooks their mental well-being. The intense academic demands lead to issues like anxiety and depression. In extreme cases, some students even feel worthless or consider suicide.

Additionally, the system fails to recognise students’ strengths in fields like the arts and sports. Test scores may reflect academic knowledge but do not capture all of students’ abilities.

This is unfair to those who have much more to offer society. The Education Bureau should reduce the frequency of tests and screening for secondary school and university admissions.

This would help reduce academic pressure, improve students’ mental health, and create a more supportive environment for their growth.

If you have suicidal thoughts or know someone who is experiencing them, help is available. In Hong Kong, dial +852 2896 0000 for The Samaritans or +852 2382 0000 for Suicide Prevention Services.

Angus Choi, HKMA David Li Kwok Po College

I am writing in response to the article regarding teenagers who avoid seeking help for their declining mental health. I believe this is a common problem and that parents should be taught to take action before it is too late.

Teenagers experience complex emotions and significant hormonal changes during puberty. They are easily influenced by these feelings and may experience anxiety, depression and even boredom.

Unfortunately, a fear of being judged by peers or parents can prevent them from seeking help.

Parents must create a safe environment at home where teenagers feel comfortable discussing their feelings and struggles. They should also learn to spot early signs of declining mental health, stay informed and develop the skills needed to support their children.

Teenagers should also understand that it is OK and even courageous to talk about their feelings. Starting from when they are young, they should be taught to identify and express their emotions. They should also be encouraged to seek help from parents or trusted adults rather than relying on social media, which can be unreliable and even misleading.

Only a third of Hong Kong students will seek help for mental health problems: survey

August Liang, Tsuen Wan Government Secondary School

Hong Kong’s summers are only getting hotter. The rise in temperatures is primarily due to human activities.

While advocate groups urge us to save energy, we continue to cut down trees for fuel and paper, focusing on convenience rather than sustainability. We use disposable utensils and choose imported foods. All these actions significantly harm the environment.

There are simple things we can do to help. Start by switching off appliances when not in use and choosing energy-efficient ones. Use fans instead of air conditioners. Recycling and reusing items will reduce the need for new products.

The problem is not that people cannot do these things; it is that many do not want to. This mindset is dangerous. We are already seeing the effects of global warming, and it will lead to disastrous consequences. We must change our habits, not just for future generations but for ourselves.

Imagine a world where every season feels like summer. If we do not take action, the earth could become uninhabitable. Let’s work together to lower temperatures and protect our planet!