Your Voice: Fallout of monitoring your child’s every move; economic boost from Hong Kong Sevens (short letters)
- One reader says that the long-term implications of parents tracking their kids’ devices can be fairly damaging
- Another student writes that the Hong Kong Sevens is not just a sporting event but a win for the city’s tourism industry
One student says that when parents use tracking devices, the child may think that there is a lack of trust in the relationship. Photo: Shutterstock Have something to say? Send us a letter using this Google form.
Helicopter parenting is a concern
Kelly Fong, Tsuen Wan Ho Chuen Yiu Memorial College
The use of tracking devices to monitor a child’s every move is a deeply concerning trend that requires careful consideration. While the intent to keep children safe is understandable, the long-term implications of using such devices raise worries.
Constantly tracking a child’s location can erode their sense of privacy and independence, hindering their personal growth and autonomy. It communicates that they cannot be trusted to navigate the world without constant parental oversight.
Moreover, the data collected by these tracking devices is susceptible to hacking and misuse, putting children at risk of stalking or other privacy violations. The lack of regulation surrounding the use of this technology is also troubling, leaving families with limited options if things go awry.
Parents should prioritise fostering open communication, teaching safety skills, and cultivating trusting relationships with their children. This approach empowers young people to make responsible decisions and develop the resilience to navigate the world independently.
We must ensure that the methods we employ to safeguard children do not inadvertently hinder their development.
Should parents use devices to track where their children are at all times?
Hong Kong Sevens: the economic boost
Alexa Chan, German Swiss International School
Every year, the streets come alive with excitement as visitors and locals unite to celebrate the Hong Kong Sevens.
More than just a sporting occasion, the Hong Kong Sevens is also a testament to the city’s strength and determination.
According to a report by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the Hong Kong Sevens event was a catalyst for HK$358 million in visitor spending in 2019. This staggering figure underscores the event’s pivotal role as one of the most significant contributors to Hong Kong’s thriving tourism industry.
The Hong Kong Sevens event is not just a platform for thrilling sports action, but also a lucrative opportunity for sponsors. The tournament’s ability to attract a diverse range of sponsors not only boosts the organisers’ revenue but also offers long-term exposure and business benefits to the sponsors.
Overall, the Hong Kong Sevens cements Hong Kong’s reputation as a modern metropolis with a strong sports culture.
Its ongoing success is extremely crucial for the city’s economic growth.
AI is not all bad
Matthew Wong Pak-fai, Tsuen Wan Government Secondary School
I am writing in response to the recent launch of the artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), which provides mental health support to students.
The significance of this AI chatbot lies in its potential to address the growing mental health crisis among students. Students can receive personalised advice without the inconvenience of visiting a mental health professional.
Chinese University launches AI chatbot to provide mental health support
Not only is it more convenient, but it is also less intimidating and more private for sensitive students. With safety guidelines and regulations in place, the content generated by AI chatbots is usually balanced and friendly, serving as a viable alternative to human professionals.
Many people in society perceive AI tools as a lazy approach to education, fearing that students may exploit them and engage in unethical acts.
However, the CUHK mental health chatbot is a prime example of how AI can have a positive impact on people’s lives as well.
Public money deployment is key
Cheri Lau, Pope Paul VI College
Hong Kong lawmakers have expressed concern over a large amount of public money being spent on an office for the former chief executive, Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor.
According to the Director of Administration, Ng Kiang Mei-nei, this expenditure is deemed reasonable as the office had to match the chief executive’s status and operational needs. This would be particularly important when meeting various political figures and delegations to promote Hong Kong.
In my opinion, the use of public money should adhere to one principle: it should only be used for the benefit of the general public. This means that a government’s funding reserve should be strategically invested to develop the entire economy for the benefit of the general population. A prime example of this is law enforcement.
I question whether the personal office of the former chief executive truly benefits the general public. An office that matches the status of a chief executive primarily benefits herself and her visitors. As ordinary citizens, we do not have the privilege to visit the office as if it were a public space like Victoria Park. Public money comes from citizens and should be used for their benefit.