The education chief on Monday encouraged the students to face the challenges of the new academic year with optimism, emphasizing that the learning journey is just as important as the destination, even if they feel unprepared.
Secretary for Education Christine Choi Yuk-lin made the remarks while attending an opening ceremony at a Tai Po primary school this morning.
She likened the opening ceremony to the first page of a storybook, reminding students that they can rewrite their story as many possibilities still lie ahead.
In response to concerns regarding the incomplete campus construction at Erudite Government Primary School in Kwun Tong though the new academic year begins, Choi attributed the delays to adverse weather conditions over the summer.
However, Choi assured that experts have confirmed the campus, located on the hillside near the former Anderson Road quarry site, is safe for the new academic year.
Addressing the two recent suspected student suicides, along with 17 suspected cases reported in the first half of the year, Choi expressed deep concern for student mental health.
She highlighted various initiatives aimed at fostering a healthy and positive learning environment, including increased collaboration with schools and the community to promote the "4Rs Mental Health Charter"--which encourages students to prioritize rest, relax, build strong relationships, and develop resilience in the face of stress.
Acknowledging the growing challenges students face in a rapidly changing society, Choi called for a collaborative effort to enhance support for both students' and teachers' mental health.
The Education Bureau updated the Primary Education Curriculum Guide last year, recommending a reduction in the number of exams from four to three per year in most government schools.
Regarding student concerns about reduced exam frequency potentially leading to increased content difficulty, Choi clarified that assessments are designed to help teachers adjust their teaching pace and allow students to evaluate their learning progress.
With some secondary schools starting the academic year early to aid students preparing for the upcoming Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) exams, Choi noted that the bureau mandates a minimum number of school days but not a maximum, recognizing that different students have varying needs.
She stressed the importance of maintaining communication among schools, parents, students, and teachers to effectively plan for students' academic journeys.
Following the decision to abolish the HK$2,500 student subsidy for the new academic year, Choi explained that this move aims to allocate public funds more effectively.
Choi assured that the authorities would assist financially needy students and allow schools to provide support as needed.
