As Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) nations strengthen their economic and cultural ties with China, there is a growing demand for an education system that bridges Eastern and Western pedagogical approaches while preparing students for global opportunities. This presentation examines how Hong Kong’s Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) curriculum can be enhanced and adapted for international deployment (iDSE) through the strategic integration of Chinese as a Second Language (CSL) component. While the current DSE curriculum stands out as an internationally acclaimed qualification, seamlessly integrating rigorous academic standards with a blend of Chinese and Western educational philosophies, its Chinese language component is primarily designed for native speakers. The proposed iDSE framework aims to address this limitation by incorporating a dedicated CSL pathway, especially crucial for Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) nations where mastery of Chinese is increasingly vital for economic collaboration, access to higher education, and career advancement. The HKDSE’s recognition by more than 600 higher education institutions worldwide provides a solid foundation for this enhancement. Luke Yick, President of the HKU Education Alumni Foundation, will articulate the Foundation’s strategic vision for deploying the enhanced iDSE curriculum across BRI nations, emphasizing its role as a conduit for educational and cultural interchange. Professor Loh, Assistant Professor at HKU’s Faculty of Education, a leading expert in Chinese language education, will present the innovative CSL framework being developed specifically for international learners, designed to complement the existing DSE structure while meeting the distinct linguistic and cultural requirements of non-native Chinese speakers.

The presentation will showcase planned pilot programs, implementation strategies, and projected outcomes for this comprehensive approach in preparing international students for opportunities in both Chinese and global contexts. We will also share the Foundation’s ultimate vision of establishing a network of iDSE schools along BRI nations, creating educational bridges that foster international understanding, facilitate cultural exchange, and nurture future global leaders who are proficient in both Eastern and Western contexts. Through this initiative, we aim to create a natural pathway for students from BRI nations to pursue higher education in Hong Kong and mainland China, thereby enriching the talent pool and strengthening educational ties across the region.