End
(iv)
(v)
102 -
a consultancy on the current system, conducted from October to December 1995, has identified measures for further improvement; and
during festive rush periods such as Easter. Christmas and the Chinese New Year, all roster leave for the staff is suspended so as to deploy additional staff to cope with the heavy workload.
Civic education
****
Following is a question by Dr the Hon David Li Kwok-po and a written reply by the Secretary for Education and Manpower. Mr Joseph WP Wong, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
According to a recent survey commissioned by the Curriculum Development Council, 10 per cent of primary school pupils thought there was no need to respect Chinese traditions. Moreover, the survey found that the pupils' civic knowledge was generally confined to classroom teaching. In this connection. will the Government inform this Council:
(a)
(b)
how it plans to reinforce pupils' appreciation of Chinese culture and history, which is vital for developing national identity; and
what specific programmes will be implemented by primary schools to enhance pupils' awareness of civic issues?
Reply:
Mr President.
(a)
Primary students learn about Chinese culture and Chinese history through different subjects such as Social Studies and Chinese Language. extra-curricular activities, school assemblies and class teacher periods. The Education Department encourages schools to organise civic education related extra-curricular activities, such as interest clubs and inter-school competitions, by providing advisory services, co-ordination and financial assistance as necessary.