Principal Wan Wing-Sze Athena (right), Lam Pui-hong (center, right), and Law Kai-sum (center, left) pose with talented students during their participation at the International Sustainable Development Film Festival in Hong Kong on Oct 2, 2023. (PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY)

Queen Elizabeth School Old Students' Association Tong Kwok Wah Secondary School (QTS) has established a new department to nurture students' awareness of global issues and cultivate their identity as global citizens.

The new Department of Global Classroom aims to broaden the students’ horizons beyond the boundaries of traditional classrooms through engaging hands-on experiences, according to a statement from the school.

The school joined forces with the French International School in Hong Kong for a two-day International Sustainable Development Film Festival to introduce the concept of sustainable development

Initially, the school has chosen France as the destination for students participating in the program in partnership with the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong.

The school joined forces with the French International School in Hong Kong for a two-day International Sustainable Development Film Festival to introduce the concept of sustainable development.

ALSO READ: OECD: HK students among world's best in math, science

During the festival, French documentary Bigger Than Us was screened and students joined in a sharing session led by environmental activist Malati Wijsen.

Also in collaboration with Lycée Français International, an induction day focusing on climate change was conducted, providing students with a one-day interactive workshop that extended beyond the school campus.

The French documentary "Bigger Than Us" is shown during a two-day International Sustainable Development Film Festival at the French International School. (PHOTO PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY)

These events set a solid foundation for the program and the school has established online talks with several schools in France, including Collège Les Nénuphars, George Sand High School, and Bernard Palissy High School, for the program’s second phase.

“During exchange meetings with French schools. I learned a lot from French students. Through our communication, I witnessed their dedication and learned about how they celebrate Christmas. In the end, I believe these shared memories are of great value to me," said Andy Yang, a student participant from Hong Kong.

READ MORE: Education shifts from pressure to pleasure

Yang’s comment highlights the transformative power of global education and reinforces the school’s commitment to provide meaningful experiences for its students, according to the statement.