Chinese history exam revisions 'won't affect global recognition'

The proposed changes to the Chinese history examination for the Diploma of Secondary Education will not undermine its global recognition, said Ho Hon-kuen, the founding chairman of the National History Education Center in Hong Kong.

The changes will allow DSE candidates to opt to take only Paper 1 of the Chinese History subject, which carries 70 percent of the total marks, instead of having to complete both Paper 1 and Paper 2 as required under the current system.However, students who choose this option will be capped at a maximum level of 5 (out of 5*) for the subject.

Ho described the changes as a positive move that will provide more flexibility for students.He emphasized that "the changes will not hinder the recognition of the subject among international institutions."

He added: "The improvement measures offer more choices to DSE candidates, which I think is good to have."

However, he noted that the success of the changes will depend on the emphasis placed on Chinese history education by both teachers and students, as well as societal support.

Ho expressed concern that only 13 percent of DSE students took the Chinese History exam this year, which he said has been a persistent problem for all schools in the city. Chinese history education is fundamental to national education as it helps students understand the evolution of the country and international affairs, alongside issues of national security, he added.

Looking ahead, Ho suggested that after implementing the enhanced Chinese history subject, education authorities should consider making the subject compulsory without an examination, and allow for interest-based or project-based learning.He also proposed a comprehensive review of the current four core DSE subjects - Chinese, English, Mathematics, and Citizenship and Social Development - to determine if changes are needed.