'Curriculum changes can boost student STEM numbers'

Efforts by the government to improve senior secondary science and advanced mathematics curriculums are expected to encourage more students to pursue these subjects, according to an education sector representative. The Education Bureau outlined these enhancements in a circular sent to schools, with the aim of strengthening STEM education and enhancing students' innovation and technology skills.

The bureau is currently reviewing the content and assessment methods for senior secondary science courses and extended mathematics. They plan to separate the content into core and extended sections to accommodate students with varying abilities and study requirements. The bureau also urged schools to motivate students with interests or potential in science to enroll in two or more science and mathematics courses during their senior secondary education.

Ho Wai-lung, chairman of the Mathematics Committee of the Hong Kong Association for Science and Mathematics Education, commented on the measures during a RTHK radio program. He stated that these changes would motivate students to take up science subjects, emphasizing that if students are passionate about science, wish to continue studying science and mathematics at university, and pursue further studies, it is crucial to develop these skills from a young age.

However, Ho acknowledged that some schools may face challenges in staffing, as teachers may need additional education to comply with the new policy. He also dismissed worries that the emphasis on mathematics and science education would impede students' overall development, asserting that students would still have the freedom to choose their courses.