Your Voice: Israel-Hamas conflict represents long-standing tensions in Middle East; Hong Kong typhoons and their impact on education (short letters)

The Israel-Hamas conflict is a long-standing and complex issue. It involves the ongoing tensions and hostilities between Israel, a sovereign state, and Hamas, an Islamist militant group that controls the Gaza Strip, a Palestinian territory.

The conflict has seen periodic escalations of violence over the years, with both Israel and Hamas engaging in military operations, including rocket attacks, air strikes, and ground incursions. These escalations often result in casualties, destruction of infrastructure, and significant humanitarian consequences for civilians on both sides.

Israel-Hamas war swamps social media with fake news

Lebanon’s Hezbollah, a Shia Islamist political and military organisation, has been involved in conflicts in the region as well. Hezbollah has historically supported Hamas and the Palestinian cause, and it has engaged in hostilities with Israel in the past, primarily through cross-border attacks and rocket fire from southern Lebanon.

The involvement of Hezbollah in the Israel-Hamas conflict would further complicate the situation and potentially escalate tensions. It could lead to a broader regional conflict involving multiple actors and further endanger the lives of civilians in the region.

Edison Ng Chun-lun, Tsuen Wan Public Ho Chuen Yiu Memorial College

The number of typhoons hitting Hong Kong recently is not only concerning in terms of the climate, but also has a negative impact on students’ education, as they are forced to miss school.

Students are naturally exhausted and burned out. When a typhoon strikes, they get a holiday and an opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate. However, these raging friends visit too frequently now.

Typhoon days are now a troublesome circumstance. The disruptions to the academic calendar stop us from going to school and make it difficult to maintain consistency in our studies. It becomes challenging for us to cover the extensive curriculum and adequately prepare for examinations.

The regular occurrence of typhoons in October has become distressing. It disrupts our learning, adds to our stress, and creates an atmosphere of uncertainty. We must bear in mind that although typhoons give us a holiday, the impact of these disruptions can be disastrous. Teachers may struggle to cover curriculum, giving students more work to do and more quickly.

Science behind how typhoons are formed and what makes them different from cyclones and hurricanes

Irene Zhang Ka-yu, Pope Paul VI College

I am writing to express my views on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the importance of empathising with individuals on the spectrum.

ASD is a developmental disability characterised by differences in the brain, leading to difficulties in social communication, interaction, and repetitive behaviours or interests. We must recognise and understand the challenges faced by individuals with ASD rather than ignoring their feelings.

There are loads of misconceptions about autism. A prominent example would be the belief that people with ASD lack empathy and emotions. While it is true that individuals with autism may have trouble expressing their emotions, it does not mean they don’t have them. They are humans like all of us. It is merely the way they depict themselves that is different.

Individuals with ASD try their best to adapt. We should empathise with their needs by giving a helping hand. Understanding and accepting others can foster an inclusive society that values emotional connections.

Learning about autism helps neurodivergent students feel welcomed

Alvin Tung Yat-ho, Hong Kong Tang King Po College

Breaking free from the watchful eyes of overprotective parents can be tough, so I would like to share a few strategies that helped me:

Firstly, engaging in open and honest conversations with my parents made a huge difference. Sitting down with them calmly and respectfully, expressing my feelings while acknowledging their concerns was crucial. Finding common ground and actively listening to each other had a profound impact.

Another effective strategy is to demonstrate responsibility. I showed my parents I could make wise decisions by taking on additional responsibilities and following through on commitments. This showcased my maturity. Gradually, I earned their trust, and they began granting me more freedom.

Remember it is unrealistic to expect your parents to let go of their protective instincts overnight. A good starting point is to initiate conversations about gaining additional privileges or opportunities to make decisions on your own, such as managing your schedule. By demonstrating your ability to handle these responsibilities, your parents will gradually become more comfortable granting you additional freedom.