ENG-1994 — Page 191

EDUCATION

In 1993-94, grants of £4.4 million and loans of $10.5 million were made to 1 415 students. With the expansion of tertiary education in Hong Kong, the scheme will be phased out over three years starting from 1994–95.

United Kingdom-Hong Kong Scholarships Scheme

This scheme aims to help outstanding students from Hong Kong to pursue tertiary educa- tion in the United Kingdom. The scholarship fund is contributed equally by the United Kingdom Government and the Royal Hong Kong Jockey Club on behalf of the Hong Kong Government. Nine scholarships were awarded in 1993–94.

Sir Edward Youde Memorial Fund

The fund was established to manage public donations made in memory of the late Governor, Sir Edward Youde, who passed away in service in 1986. The fund promotes education and learning among Hong Kong people, and encourages research. In 1993–94, $8.4 million was disbursed. Twelve students were awarded fellowships or scholarships for postgraduate or undergraduate study overseas. Locally, 47 postgraduate students were awarded fellowships; and 71 under-graduate, diploma and certificate students received scholarships. Awards were also made to three students excelling in public examinations; eight disabled students at secondary, post-secondary and tertiary levels; and 625 out- standing senior secondary students nominated by school heads.

Other Scholarship and Assistance Schemes

In addition to the above, there are other scholarship and assistance schemes for school students, endowed by private benefactors. A large number of scholarships are administered by the Student Financial Assistance Agency under the Education Scholarships Fund Ordinance.

Schools and Kindergartens Kindergartens

In September, 180 109 children aged three to five years were enrolled in 739 kinder- gartens. Kindergartens run on a non-profit-making basis are eligible for rent and rates reimbursements, and may be allocated premises in public housing estates. Most kindergartens operate two half-day sessions, but the number offering whole-day places is increasing.

The Education Department gives professional advice to kindergartens through inspection visits; produces curriculum materials; organises seminars, workshops and exhibitions to help heads and teachers develop their professional skills; and runs basic in-service training courses for teachers. It also publishes guidelines to help teachers organise the curriculum and learning activities. A pamphlet on environmental education for kindergartens was issued in 1994 to provide guidelines and suggestions for environmental education, both within and outside the school setting.

During the year, the government accepted in principle recommendations by the Board of Education for improving kindergarten teacher education and qualifications. Improvement measures planned to begin in 1995 include an expanded teacher training programme, and a requirement for at least 40 per cent of teachers in each kindergarten to be trained.

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