Talent influx spurs student rethink

Eunice Lam

Hong Kong is reviewing the definition of "local student" in tertiary institutions, taking its cue from overseas policies in the United Kingdom and Singapore.

The review follows the arrival of over 100,000 overseas talents, many of whom have children attending local schools.

Secretary for Education Christine Choi Yuk-lin said the bureau aims to create a fairer competitive landscape for university enrollment.

But she said any adjustments must not compromise Hong Kong's competitiveness or impede the influx of talent.

That came as STEAM education has gone "full speed ahead" over the past year, she said.

Choi said that is in line with the national "Strategy for Invigorating China Through Science and Education" and has shown up in significant improvements in students' performance in science and mathematics.

Last month, the Education Bureau discussed the syllabus for science at the junior secondary level, which is set to trial in September and be implemented in 2027/28.

She also highlighted the importance of leveraging strengths in tertiary education to promote the "Study in Hong Kong" brand.

Choi referenced China's recent development plan, which aims to establish the country as a leader in education, expressing confidence that Hong Kong will enter its "golden era" in the coming decade.

In other news, the administration has indicated it will implement cost cuts in preparation for next month's budget amid a nearly HK$100 billion deficit.

Permanent Secretary for Education Michelle Li Mei-sheung said discussions are ongoing with universities regarding fees for non-locals over the next three years.

"We will see if there is any space for adjustments," she said.