What if I told you that the name of Po Leung Kuk Lo Kit Sing College sparked a controversy? This Hong Kong secondary school has a story beyond classrooms. It involves a generous donation and a surprising name change.
Po Leung Kuk Lo Kit Sing College is located in Tsing Yi. It is on Cheung Hong Estate in the New Territories. The college was founded in 1984 by Po Leung Kuk. Po Leung Kuk is a Hong Kong charitable organization. Interestingly, it was the first secondary school on the island.
Before 2011, the school had a different name. It was known as Po Leung Kuk 1983 Board of Directors’ College. In January 2010, Po Leung Kuk announced a significant donation. Mr. Lo donated HK$10 million to the school. To honor the donor, the school proposed a name change.
This proposal didn’t go down without a hitch. It ignited controversy among students and alumni. A Facebook campaign was launched. The aim was to withdraw the proposal. The student union even held a forum to discuss the issue. Hui Wing-ho, the school’s principal at the time, attended.
Despite the initial resistance, the name change was confirmed. Lo Kit-sing, then-vice-chairman of the Hong Kong Football Association, donated HK$7.8 million. In June 2011, the school officially became Po Leung Kuk Lo Kit Sing College.
The new name was unveiled on September 14, 2011. A representative from Po Leung Kuk did the honors. The Education Bureau approved the change on November 28, 2011. A naming ceremony was held on December 2, 2011. Michael Suen Ming-yeung, the Secretary for Education, officiated.
Po Leung Kuk Lo Kit Sing College is more than just its name. It emphasizes a well-rounded education. The school arranges many extracurricular activities for students. These include dance and music festivals. There are also drama performances and Chinese cultural week. Swimming galas, sports days, and summer camps are held annually.
The college has been a pioneer in project-based learning. Since the 1990s students work on projects in groups during summer vacation. They also complete projects related to their subjects.
In September 2010, English became the medium of instruction. This was to strengthen the role of English in the school. About one-third of the lessons are conducted in English. Even the morning assembly is in English.
Po Leung Kuk Lo Kit Sing College promotes reform programs. They have introduced thematic research courses. The school also has reading programs. Teachers and students use IT in learning and teaching. The Civic and Moral Education Group organizes activities like Voicing our values.
The school is equipped with over 300 computers. Each classroom has an LCD projector and multimedia player. Multimedia teaching is common. Students often watch videos and download materials in class.
Extracurricular activities are diverse. They include academic, arts, sports, and service groups. The school offers many activities. There are clubs, school teams, and interest groups. Students can participate in the Music For All Program.
The school teams range from badminton to soccer. There are also dance, orchestra, and debating teams. Interest groups cover everything from chess to magic. Students can even join a Japanese Culture Club.
Po Leung Kuk Lo Kit Sing College is not just a school. It is a place of history and change. It fosters a diverse learning environment for its students.