On Nov. 23, I participated in the 40th anniversary of Hong Kong Red Cross John F. Kennedy Centre. The guest of honour was Sir T.L. Yang. I was invited by Principal Maria Wong to attend the ceremony.

The school specializes in special education, accepting students from 6 to 20 years old. They are generally classified as physically challenged. Beside trained teachers and specialists, psychology teachers, social workers and nurses are also hired to serve the students. At present there are 80 spaces for needy students.

The educational motto for the centre is: “Equipped with the humanistic spirit of Red Cross Society, caring for the physically disabled and sick students, offering whole education, cultivating respect and value for life, so as to overcome difficulties, expand potential, establish respect, arriving at a full and meaningful life”.

In the Principal’s school report, she pointed out that in order to help the students to be persistent and diligent in overcoming difficulties, the teachers have to first set an example. In his speech of thanks, a Form-7 student said: “After graduation from secondary school, I studied Form 6 in a regular high school; fortunately, my mother school recently applied successfully to include pre-university level, and so I was able to return. Only here do I have the feeling of family”.

Hope that this educational spirit continues to be renewed.

Related links: www.redcross.org.hk www.jfk.edu.hk