ENG-1978 — Page 115

EDUCATION

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find places in universities, polytechnics, technical colleges, colleges of further educa- tion and other educational institutions in Britain. The section is responsible for exercising broad supervision over their progress and general welfare during their studies or training.

The Student Section works closely with the Education Department in Hong Kong and other departments. In the United Kingdom, it maintains close relations with departments of the British Government, local education authorities, the British Coun- cil, educational establishments and hospitals.

In December, 1978, the records listed some 11,025 students, including students on sandwich courses and nurses in training. New arrivals during the calendar year totalled 2,566, compared with 1,859 the previous year. The newcomers included 1,975 students for General Certificate of Education courses and 48 for basic or post- registration qualifications in nursing. Student visitors to the section totalled 906. Inquiries about sources of financial assistance continued to be received owing to inflation in Britain and increases in tuition fees. To mitigate hardship, a Student Emergency Loan Fund has recently been introduced. A number of students also contacted the section for advice about the correct procedure to follow when applying to renew student visas and about employment prospects on returning to Hong Kong.

During the academic year, 3,050 applications on behalf of 1,202 students were made to polytechnics and colleges. A total of 1,233 students made direct applications to universities through the Universities Central Council on Admissions under the guid- ance of the Education Department in Hong Kong.

The government-run Hong Kong Students' Centre, formerly known as Hong Kong House, is a residential and social centre in London for Hong Kong students in Britain. It accommodates 90 students and serves as a focal point and meeting place for many of its 6,000 members. Building modifications completed during the year have produced increased space for study and recreation, a new dining room, a com- mittee room and self-serve kitchens. The Hong Kong Commissioner in London administers the centre and is assisted by an advisory board that includes two student representatives.

Hong Kong Students in Other Countries

The Overseas Students and Scholarships Section of the Education Department helps students who wish to study overseas by providing information on educational estab- lishments in Britain and other English-speaking countries.

In addition to those who went to Britain during the year, 2,061 students went to Canada for secondary or higher education, 2,605 to the United States and 215 to Australia.