Your Voice: Banning electronics in schools, alleviating poverty (short letters)

I am writing regarding the recent discussions on Finnish schools banning electronic devices in classrooms, sparking debates on technology’s role in education, which is pertinent to Hong Kong.

The benefits of electronic devices include access to resources, personalised learning experiences and digital skills. However, excessive use can lead to distraction, limited physical interaction and tech dependency, which is especially concerning in Hong Kong’s high-pressure environment.

Rather than a complete ban, Hong Kong schools should adopt balanced technology guidelines. Educators can find ways to integrate devices effectively while prioritising traditional learning methods.

This approach can maximise tech benefits while addressing its challenges. While the Finnish example is insightful, a total ban may not suit Hong Kong. Creating a harmonious blend where technology complements traditional learning can offer a balanced educational environment.

Should schools ban mobile phones on campus?

Maggie Chan Sum-yi, Tsuen Wan Government Secondary School

Recently, a 61-year-old patient in Hong Kong became critically ill after a feeding tube was mistakenly placed by an intern doctor, causing a laxative to be delivered to the lung instead of the stomach. While the intern doctor was held responsible, what measures have been implemented for improvement?

Lawmaker Dr David Lam Tzit-yuen suggests using chest X-ray exams on high-risk patients to verify feeding tube positions and improving supervision and training for intern doctors.

Many, particularly the elderly, choose public facilities due to the cost disparity between private and public. This overload causes long waits, delays and a strain on resources. It also leads to intern doctors working with limited support and oversight. Simply improving their training and supervision is not enough. Immediate action is needed.

Public hospitals should consider a new approach. One suggestion is to align accident and emergency fees with general clinics, encouraging those with minor ailments to visit those clinics instead. This could reduce the burden on public hospitals.

It’s essential for us, Hong Kong citizens, to use our advanced medical services responsibly.

Christy Heidi Lie, International Christian School

On October 17, 1987, crowds gathered in Trocadéro, Paris, France, to honour victims of poverty. This date is commemorated as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, uniting people of all backgrounds to raise awareness and combat poverty.

Despite poverty seeming distant to some, Hong Kong has seen a widening wealth gap in 2024. According to an Oxfam report, 619,000 households in the city are below the poverty line, and the wealthiest earn 81 times more than the poorest.

The study also highlights a 42.9 per cent rise in elderly residents living in poverty since 2019. Poverty remains a dire daily crisis for many.

While the UN and governments work on policy changes, individual contributions matter greatly, irrespective of background or age. We can aid the fight against poverty by educating ourselves and others, volunteering at local organisations, donating resources, advocating for fair policies and supporting community initiatives.

No matter the scale of our efforts, we can all contribute to alleviating poverty.

NGO exhibit shows how women bear the brunt of Hong Kong’s cramped subdivided flats

Suki Chim Wing-sze, Leung Shek Chee College

I am concerned about the mental well-being of teenagers, particularly the increasing prevalence of anxiety and depression among young individuals, which is often linked to academic stress.

In this message, I aim to introduce a beneficial practice – meditation – that can aid students in managing their stress. Meditation involves focusing and clearing the mind to attain a state of calm and clarity.

Through regular meditation, individuals can build their emotional resilience and find relief from the pressures of their hectic daily lives. Furthermore, meditation plays a role in cognitive function. It pushes practitioners to think more clearly and improve their concentration, helping them tackle problems more effectively.

Meditation is simpler than you may think. Find a comfortable place to sit down, then focus on what you’re paying attention to. Concentrate on an object, image, mantra or breathing to free your mind from stress and worries.

I encourage anyone struggling with anxiety to explore meditation. With consistent practice, I believe those struggling with stress will find it a helpful way to relax and calm down.