Another primary school allows simplified Chinese in exams, sparking debate

Another government primary school in Hong Kong has drawn attention for permitting students to use simplified Chinese characters in examinations, raising concerns about fairness among some parents while others praise the flexible approach.

The issue emerged at Li Sing Primary School in Sai Ying Pun, where students were allowed to answer Chinese language test papers using simplified characters during recent exams, including crucial Primary 6 placement tests. Some parents expressed concern that this creates unfair advantages since simplified characters can be written faster than traditional ones.

A mainland Chinese parent surnamed Zhang, who arrived through a talent scheme, said he encourages his daughter to learn Cantonese and use traditional characters, stating that since they study in Hong Kong, they should "persist with Hong Kong's culture."

The Education Bureau responded that all students, regardless of background, need to learn traditional characters to facilitate communication and integrate into Hong Kong society. Officials emphasized that placement tests, like other school assessments, must ensure fair and just evaluation principles.

This follows a similar controversy at Sha Tin Government Primary School, which recently issued a special notice permitting simplified characters in tests and exams. The bureau has reminded schools to continuously review and optimize assessment policies and provide adequate explanations to stakeholders about any changes.