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Separately, in the event that the families of such young drug abusers are unable to support them financially, they would be able to apply for financial assistance under the CSSA Scheme.

The educational needs of these youngster during their treatment and rehabilitation are catered for under ED's Programme. Nevertheless, the SWD is evaluating the service provided by these drug withdrawal centres in the treatment and rehabilitation of young drug abusers with a view to considering what assistance could be provided to relevant agencies.

Workload of language teachers under review

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:

The findings of a survey conducted by the Professional Teachers' Union reveal that 90% of language teachers are under an enormous workload and that they have to spend on average 35 hours a week after school in marking students' assignments. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council whether the Education Department has any plan to increase the number of language teachers and reduce the number of teaching sessions of these teachers?

Reply:

Mr President,

Arising from the recommendation of the Education Commission Report No.6, the Education Department has set up a working group to review the workload of language teachers in primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong. In this connection, the Department has commissioned the Hong Kong Institute of Education to conduct a consultancy study of the workload of language teachers in the light of existing curriculum, examinations, teaching methods and resource materials available in schools. The consultancy study is scheduled to be completed in July 1997. We will consider taking appropriate action in the light of the findings of the consultancy study and any recommendations from the working group.

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