TNAG-0607-FCO40-755-Monitoring-progress-made-on-planning-papers-on-Hong-Kong-1977 — Page 98

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These respondents thought that although the 3 years of junior secondary education should be free, it should not be compulsory for all. Families suffering hardship should be given sp consideration.

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15.

Some respondents thought that free and compulsory education was a concept imported from western countries and not yet suited for application in Hong Kong. It was speculated that the criticism nade by western countries on child labour in Hong Kong might have triggered off this sudden decision of a free and compulsory education systen.

16.

Many parents generally welcomed free secondary education of 3 years, but expressed their fears that their children studying in private secondary schools would probably be required to pay exorbitant schools fees after Form III if they were to complete a 5-year secondary education. For this reason some urged that Government should seriously consider 5 years of free secondary education.

17.

A number of respondents noted that some young people were totally uninterested in schooling so that the proposal of compulsory attendance might create problems for their parents. Others were skeptical of the enforcement problems in the imple- mentation of the system.

18.

Others feared that compulsory education up to Form III might cause a decline both in the general standards and quality of the students. They argued the inclusion into the class of hack- ward and unwilling students would hinder the progress of other students.

19.

Some suggested that the curriculum of the 3 year junior secondary education should include technical/vocational training for students not interested in academic studies. This would enhance their job opportunities upon leaving school.

Housing

20.

Home ownership scheme There was much interest in the home ownership scheme, and general response was favourable, especially among families whose total monthly income was below $3,500 and who were not at present living in public housing estates.

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