About 500 Hong Kong students took part in a summer camp hosted by the Hong Kong Garrison of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, a longstanding tradition fostering patriotism, discipline, and practical skills.

At the camp’s closing ceremony, held at San Wai Barracks, students from over 190 secondary schools and universities — a nearly 50 percent increase from the previous year — received graduation certificates and showcased their training achievements to guests and parents.

Over the 10-day camp, the participants engaged in a transformative experience that honed their skills, including physical drills, marching, individual soldier formation movements, map usage, and survival techniques. They also had the opportunity to see state-of-the-art military equipment.

The activities were designed to deepen their sense of patriotism and provide a comprehensive understanding of national defense. Furthermore, the camp aimed to promote personal growth by developing a healthy lifestyle, a spirit of hard work, and self-discipline among the students.

Since their inception in 2005 and 2011, the camps, designed for secondary students and university students respectively, have involved over 8,500 local students.

The event is part of the PLA Hong Kong Garrison’s ongoing efforts to enhance community engagement alongside its defense responsibilities. The garrison said it remains committed to promoting national defense education to inspire more young people, ultimately contributing to a better Hong Kong and the broader goal of national rejuvenation.