The new school year in Hong Kong has begun, with authorities facing challenges due to a declining birth rate. With 70 Primary One classes in 66 schools being scrapped, and some schools having only one class or none at all, the threat of closures looms. Secretary for Education Christine Choi Yuk-lin anticipates three to four schools shutting down in the next five years, citing a structural problem.
Despite this bleak outlook for public schools, there is a stark contrast in the rise of international school enrollments. The census report reveals an 11-year high in students attending international schools, with a 18% increase since 2013. Non-local students make up a significant portion of this growth.
The discrepancy between the decline in local school enrollments and the surge in international school attendance is alarming. With seven new international schools opening since 2013, the preference for these institutions is evident. The future of education in Hong Kong faces uncertainty as the demand for international education continues to rise.
While low birth rates contribute to the enrollment decline in public schools, the popularity of international schools also plays a significant role. The education landscape in Hong Kong is evolving, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to address the imbalance in school admissions.