About In Praise of Teachers

The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) is committed to nurturing outstanding and caring educators and professionals who contribute constructively to sustainable social and economic development in Hong Kong, our country and the world. The song, In Praise of Teachers, reflects the University's deep respect and gratitude for educators.

1. Celebrating the Contribution of Teachers

Teachers play a crucial role in shaping lives, nurturing intellectual growth, and fostering moral development in students. The lyrics of In Praise of Teachers, such as “Who opened up my mind and taught me to think”, capture the profound impact of teachers on their students’ lives. In 2014, Dr Leung Chi-hin, Assistant Professor at the Department of Cultural and Creative Arts (CCA), EdUHK rearranged the song, reflecting the creativity, dedication, and transformative influence of educators, making it a powerful tribute to their contributions.

2. Preserving and Promoting Cultural and Educational Values

The song connects with EdUHK’s commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage and educational values. Dr Leung’s rearrangement of the piece incorporates a mixed chorus, clarinet, string quintet and piano, with added expressive harmonies to make the song more appealing. This creative adaptation demonstrates the intersection of tradition and innovation – a hallmark of EdUHK’s approach to education. By making the music score, videos, and audio files freely accessible to the public, the University ensures that these cultural and educational values are shared widely and celebrated globally.

3. Inspiring Future Generations of Educators

One of EdUHK’s key goals is to inspire individuals to pursue teaching as a noble and impactful profession. The song serves as a source of inspiration, reminding the public of the vital role teachers play in shaping society. By highlighting the beauty of this song and its message, EdUHK aims to motivate aspiring educators to take pride in the profession and embrace its profound importance.

4. Promoting Accessibility and Public Engagement 

The website provides free access to videos, audio recordings and the musical score of In Praise of Teachers, to encourage public engagement and appreciation for teachers. This open-access platform reflects the University’s value of inclusivity and its commitment to making educational and cultural resources available to everyone. By fostering greater accessibility, EdUHK ensures that the song’s message resonates across diverse audiences and communities.

5. Promoting Respect, Appreciation, and Gratitude for Teachers

EdUHK values caring, appreciation, respect and empathy, which are fundamental qualities embodied by teachers. The In Praise of Teachers initiative reflects these values by creating a platform that honours educators and their dedication. By celebrating teachers through music, EdUHK fosters a culture of gratitude and respect for the teaching profession.