Two students of the Hong Kong College of Technology were kicked out of their own graduation ceremony last December after refusing to stand for the national anthem, and over 10 other students then walked out in support of the pair.

The principal of the institution, Chan Cheuk-hay, spoke to the students after the ceremony. 

“Since the school's first day, we have raised the national flag and sung the national anthem. The school never retreated, even under colonial rule, despite being suppressed through funding cuts, and even the seizure of its campus,” Chan said he respected the freedom of expression, but there was a bottom line. 

Disrespecting the national anthem and flag is nothing new among the city's youth, and sentiments advocating "Hong Kong independence" are increasing on campuses.

Analysts say the lack of national education may be an important factor.

Civic education is common in other parts of the world, but in Hong Kong, it is seen as brainwashing by many. Promoting national educational standards has been difficult. There were large protests opposing the teaching of national education in Hong Kong schools in 2012. And there is still some opposition against pushing forward with education reforms.

Hong Kong's return to China was 20 years ago, but not everyone's hearts have completely returned - especially the city's younger residents. Many students identify themselves as Hong Kongers, instead of Chinese.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam vowed to boost the national education syllabus to nurture a sense of “I am Chinese” among youth from as early as kindergarten. Chan said this was necessary. He said China now has become the world’s second largest economy, and huge changes have taken place in the past decades, but some Hong Kong residents still don’t know much about the mainland. It’s time to foster a sense of national pride among students.

Analysts say the study of Chinese history, literature and culture is still being neglected in most schools. Teaching Chinese heritage to Hong Kong students is key to establishing a healthy and united society. 

“Everyone’s values are formed bit by bit from a very young age. We can help students learn more about the nation through the curriculum. The more that young people know about the country, the more they will love the country. Even if there are some aspects they are not satisfied with, they should not act in extreme ways,” said Chan.

As a CPPCC member, Chan hopes to enhance exchanges between Hong Kong and mainland university students to help Hong Kong youths gain a better understanding of their country.