O 27
# Chapter V.
## REPORT BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE TECHNICAL INSTITUTE, 1931.
The Institute was open as usual during eight months of the year, when classes met at Queen's College, King's College, Belilios Public School, Central British School, Wantsai School, Quarry Bay and the University for instruction in the following subjects—English Literature, Commercial English, French, Shorthand, Book-keeping, Physics, Chemistry, Hygiene, Pedagogy, Electrical Engineering, Mechanics, Field Surveying, Building Construction, Sanitation and Physical Training. There were two new classes—Sanitation and Mechanics. The first was attended by nine Sanitary Inspectors who listened to lectures on every aspect of their calling, with the very gratifying result that seven Inspectors were able to sit for and to pass the Royal Sanitary Institute Examination in Sanitary Science. The second was, on the recommendation of the Trade School Committee, organised for the benefit of the apprentices in the Taikoo Dockyard. It is divided into two divisions, which are taught by members of the Dockyard staff such elementary mathematics and drawing as are of practical value in their trade. Arrangements are being made to provide a similar class at Hung Hom for the Kowloon apprentices. An "Art" class mainly for the benefit of locally trained teachers is also being organised. The Navigation class has been closed. It was formed to give instruction to sailors on launches and junks. This is now well catered for by private enterprise.
2. The number of students enrolled during the year was 686. The average for the past five years is 655. The amount of fees received was $5,701. The expenditure was $19,678.69. The average cost per pupil was $20.37 ($18.74 in 1930).
This very low cost is mainly due to the small overhead charges.
3. In June—and for certain classes in December—examinations were conducted by independent examiners. 49% passed (40% in 1930). This improvement is mainly due to better results in the Vernacular Teachers' Classes, as forecasted in my report last year. Final "Teachers' Certificates" were gained by thirteen (fifteen in 1930) in the "English" Teachers Classes and by eleven (two in 1930) in the "Vernacular" Teachers Classes.