DSE results mark only one stop on a greater journey: John Lee

As students hold their breath for Wednesday's Diploma of Secondary Education Examination (DSE) results, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu encouraged them with the saying, "All things in their being are good for something," emphasizing that this is just one stop along their journey.

Speaking before his weekly Executive Council meeting on Tuesday, the city leader described life as a long-distance journey rather than a sprint, where direction is more important than the process itself, noting that there will be both highs and lows along the way.

Regardless of exam results or the paths chosen, Lee stressed that each route offers unique opportunities and challenges, adding every attempt is a chance for success and growth.

Lee assured students that the government will provide diverse pathways and support, stressing that government departments, family, and friends will always be there to offer advice, assistance, or simply a listening ear.

For the upcoming 2025-26 academic year, there are around 22,000 intake places available for full-time, publicly funded, and self-financing undergraduate programs, accounting for about half of the total number of candidates. 

Additionally, there are about 37,000 intake places for full-time sub-degree programs, which include the diploma programs offered by the Vocational Training Council, providing students with various options for further studies and career development.