‘Cantonese is strictly forbidden’: Hong Kong school principal apologises after unapproved language ban sparks outrage

A prestigious Hong Kong girls’ school, Good Hope School, faced public outrage after a leaked production guideline revealed that Cantonese was "strictly forbidden" in a graduation video. The guideline, which prohibited the use of Cantonese in speaking, dialogue, and voiceovers, was circulated on social media platform Threads, causing significant concern among students and parents.

In response, the school's principal, Gary Harfitt, issued an apology and clarified that the guideline was issued in error and did not reflect the school's actual policy or its stance on the use of Cantonese. Harfitt stated that the guideline was issued before it could be revised and that it never intended to ban Cantonese at the school.

He expressed his regret for the inappropriate language in the guideline and emphasized that the school's graduation ceremony would remain true to the principles and values of Good Hope School. The Education Bureau also responded to the incident, urging the school to review its event arrangements and maintain effective communication with stakeholders.