Top 10: Who would you meet from history, and what would you say?

South China Morning Post

16-05-2025

This week's question: If you could add one rule to your school, what would it be and why? To take part, drop us a line via this form by 12pm on Wednesday, May 21.
Sana Zaman Wong Sum-wai, 14, PLK Mrs Ma Kam Ming Cheung Fook Sien College: Mahatma Gandhi was an Indian leader who played a crucial role in the country's struggle for independence. I would ask him about his principles of non-violence and how he would address today's social issues, such as inequality and climate change. His insights could inspire modern movements for change.
Lareina Ma Lok-yin, 12, Pui Kiu College: Elie Wiesel was a Holocaust survivor. I would ask him, 'What was it like? How did you persevere despite the horrors?'
Lynette Tang Hin-liem, 14, St Mary's Canossian College: Ada Lovelace, known for her groundbreaking insights on the creative potential of computing in the 19th century, continues to inspire us today. I would ask how she envisioned machines going beyond mere calculations in a time before modern technology, and how she blended poetry with logic. Her resilience in the face of gender barriers and her lasting impact on STEM remind us that innovation flourishes where imagination and precision intersect.
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Vivi Chui Tsz-laam, 14, Pooi To Middle School: I would choose Thomas Edison and ask him: how did you cope with failures in your quest to invent the light bulb? What motivated you during that time? You mentioned that genius is 1 per cent inspiration and 99 per cent perspiration, but how did you continue your efforts when everyone told you your ideas were impossible? Do you have any advice for students today?
Gabrielle Leung Tsz-yau, 16, Tin Shui Wai: Patrick Steptoe is an obstetrician who, along with Robert Edwards and Jean Purdy, pioneered in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and persevered despite societal doubts. If I could meet him, I would say, 'Thank you for your relentless research, which has allowed people like me to be born.' His work transformed science into life-changing miracles.
Jenny Chan Tsz-yan, 18, Tak Nga Secondary School: If I could meet Adolf Hitler, I would ask him, 'Your decisions during World War II had a profound impact on the world. How do you view their long-term effects on humanity? Did you ever consider the possibility of achieving peace?' This question could help illuminate his motivations and the historical consequences of his actions.
Chrisom Johnbosco Emedom, 12, CCC Yenching College: Julius Caesar. I would tell him, 'As you are the dictator for life now, be careful of traitors and assassination attempts against you.' He died as a result of an assassination.
Julius Caesar was a powerful Roman dictator. Photo: Shutterstock
Ryan Wong Cheuk-man, 15, TWGHs Li Ka Shing College: Ludwig van Beethoven experienced gradual hearing loss in his midlife. I would love to ask him how he continued to pursue his music career despite such a significant setback. If I could learn from his mindset, I could apply those lessons to many aspects of my life.
Jane Tong King-kiu, 15, Christian Alliance SC Chan Memorial College: William Shakespeare was a renowned English playwright, poet and actor. During my junior studies in English literature, I learned about some of his famous works, including the classics Hamlet and Othello, which are widely recognised and discussed.
So Wing-yu, 15, Carmel Alison Lam Foundation Secondary School: Empress Dowager Cixi was a ruler during the Qing dynasty. I would advise her not to waste so much money on extravagant decorations and fragrances for her chambers. Additionally, she should avoid taking opium. As a leader, she should serve as a role model and prioritise the well-being of her people over her own desires.