ENG-1974 — Page 114

EDUCATION

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Health and Social Security and all the educational institutions and hospitals in Britain where Hong Kong students are training.

New arrivals during the year totalled 1,249 compared with 994 the previous year. Of these, 440 joined universities, polytechnics and other institutions to take profes- sional courses. By the end of the year, a total of 5,300 students had been recorded, compared with 4,300 last year. The subjects taken by these students covered a wide range and clearly showed the modern tendency away from the traditional university academic courses to the many practical subjects now available in British polytechnics and technical colleges.

Applications to universities, polytechnics and colleges for the next academic year also showed an increase on the previous year with the section processing 251 applications for entry to university compared with 128 in 1973; and 1,575 applica- tions for entry to polytechnics and other institutions of higher education compared with 1,240.

Student visitors to the section in 1974 totalled 906 compared with 724 during the previous year. They came to discuss academic, career and personal problems, with the possibilities of employment in Hong Kong figuring high among the careers enquiries.

The government maintains the Hong Kong Students Centre, formerly known as Hong Kong House, as a residential and social centre in London for Hong Kong students in Britain. It accommodates some 75 students and serves as a focal point and meeting place for many more. The Hong Kong Commissioner in London is responsible for the administration of the centre and is assisted by an advisory board which includes two student representatives. The student adviser is a member of the board and, on behalf of the Commissioner, is responsible for day-to-day liaison with the warden.

Hong Kong Students in Other Countries

Hong Kong students are also studying in a number of countries other than Britain, mainly in English-speaking countries such as Canada, Australia and the United States. Of the 3,761 students who left for Canada in 1974, the majority went initially to secondary schools in preparation for later college or university entrance. The opposite was true, however, in the case of the United States--the majority of the 2,812 students issued with student-visas were accepted for studies at the post- secondary level. There were only 91 students who went to Australia, mostly for post-secondary courses.

The overseas students and scholarships section of the Education Department gives advice and information to students intending to further their education overseas. In 1974, enquiries were received from about 2,500 students and parents concerning the choice of courses and educational institutions in countries other than Britain, admission requirements, tuition and accommodation costs, application procedures and opportunities for financial assistance.