Schools urged to merge sooner as enrolments fall

Education Secretary Christine Choi has urged primary schools with declining enrollment to consider merging or closing sooner. According to this year's Primary School Profiles, over 120 aided and government primary schools have had to reduce primary one classes, with around 60 running just one class. Speaking on a radio program, Choi emphasized that schools should make the decision as soon as possible to allow parents and students to prepare.

She noted that the decreasing student population is a long-term trend that is not expected to reverse within the next five to 10 years. Choi explained that while efforts to maintain the status quo in recent years included reducing class sizes, lowering enrollment thresholds, and increasing the number of teachers, these measures have been exhausted.

She warned that continuing down this path could harm the overall development of Hong Kong's school ecosystem. Choi advocated for larger school sizes to provide students with a more enriching learning experience and school life. She emphasized the need for schools not to wait until they have no other choice before considering a merger.

The bureau is offering a one-time HK$1 million grant to schools that choose to merge, enabling them to retain surplus teachers and make curriculum adjustments during the transition period.