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gradually phase out the JSEA system by 1991. Six years is not

a very long time. Nor is it too short. It is long enough for a primary school student to complete his primary education

while an undergraduate may obtain his first or even second

degree within the same period. However, viewed against the

entire learning process of one's lifetime, six years is but a

short while. To put the finger on 1991 as the year when the

phasing out of the JSEA would be achieved should be viewed as a

somewhat conservative move. Should conditions become more

favourable in the future, it is hoped that the phasing out of the system may be advanced to an earlier date. In deciding on whether to opt for "gradual abolition" of the JSEA or an

"immediate abolition" of the system, we should consider which

approach would go in line with the other programmes of our

education system. It would be ideal, of course, to be able to

achieve the best results within the shortest possible time with

the greatest efficiency. But would it really be possible to do

so? We must ask ourselves whether we have assessed the

question honestly and impartially.

In order to cope with Hong Kong's political, social and economic developments in future, our education system should aim to educate our younger generation to be competent in both Chinese and English. If Hong Kong is to maintain its

international position as a leading trade and financial centre,

bilingualism is essential. The Government has clearly

demonstrated in its policies the increasigly important status

of the Chinese language, while the importance of the English

language should not be overlooked. However, as Hong Kong's

secondary schools are categorized into Anglo-Chinese and

Chinese Middle Schools and as the language proficiency of most

teachers and students are not yet up to standard, the use of

English as the teaching medium has inevitably created a

communication barrier between teachers and students as well as

becoming an obstacle in the learning process. This

long-standing defect should, in fact, be removed. The

interests of the students should be given prime consideration

and schools should make a realistic and sensible decision on