HONG KONG – The Education Bureau of Hong Kong on Friday held a ceremony and briefing session for the 4Rs Mental Health Charter.

The 4Rs in the charter stand for rest, relaxation, relationship and resilience – identified as the four elements and objectives in fostering good mental health for students.

Speaking at the event, Secretary for Education Choi Yuk-lin appealed to all schools in the city to join the charter and work together to set practical and feasible goals, while taking actions to promote students’ physical and psychological health.

A harmonious and friendly school environment, a diligent and enthusiastic team of teachers, as well as healthy family relationships and lifestyles, are essential conditions for cultivating a positive new generation, she said.  

Schools participating in the charter should implement measures and activities for the promotion of their students’ mental health starting from the 2024-25 school.

They should also organize education courses or parent-child activities to promote positive parent education every year.

Participating schools will sign the Mental Health Workplace Charter, jointly implemented by the Department of Health, the Labour Department, and the Occupational Safety and Health Council, to provide a mental health-friendly work environment for staff.

Also, the schools will participate in the Whole School Health Programme and formulate health promotion strategies according to their specific circumstances.

During the launching ceremony, Dr Choi and Director of Health Dr Ronald Lam, accompanied by the mascot of the Department of Health, Active Lion, engaged in stretching exercises for relaxation together with guests.