Hong Kong should set up schools in Shenzhen for the next generation
It has been reported that the number of students whose both parents are not permanent residents of Hong Kong (“double-no” students) coming to the city for primary education is likely to soon rise significantly. It will increase from between 40 and 50 percent, as originally estimated, to 65 percent, and climb to 130,000 people. This is becoming an important issue because primary-one places are scarce in the North District of the New Territories. Despite considerable efforts by the Education Bureau, parents still worry about whether their children will get a place in schools in Sheung Shui, Fanling, etc.
Statistics show that if the total number of “double-no” students reaches 200,000 and if they all come to Hong Kong for their education, the government will face difficult problems.
Some time ago, the Chief Secretary for Administration went to Shenzhen to discuss the issue. A number of measures to facilitate the increasing number of crossborder students were introduced. The seven non-government schools, which used to offer classes for children of Hong Kong residents living in Shenzhen, can now expand their enrolments to “doubleno” students. It is estimated that total student numbers will be around 1,600 — taking up 10 percent of total cross-border numbers.
This will certainly alleviate the pressure on primary school places in the North District — especially with a growing number of “double-no” students expected in future. I believe these measures by both governments should be applauded for three reasons. First, they ease the enrolment problems facing Hong Kong schools; second, they reduce the pressure on different control points; and third, students and accompanying parents can reduce the burden of long-distance travel each day. This will be physically and mentally healthier for them.
Actually, there is a more effective way to solve the problem — the government should establish Hong Kong schools in Shenzhen or other mainland cities, providing an identical curriculum and education as local schools for Hong Kong or “doubleno” students. Students can decide whether to be educated in the city they live in or in Hong Kong at any time of their education — provided the classes are the same.
The seven above-mentioned schools are all private ones, so tuition fees are relatively high. Because of this, poorer families cannot benefit. Some suggest that the government should adopt an education voucher scheme, but it is better for the government to run Hong Kong-style schools. Alleviating local enrolment pressure while improving the education situation for Hong Kong students on the mainland can solve other problems, too.
In foreign countries, boarding school is a common way to improve a student’s independence and discipline. It is a good idea to establish boarding schools in major cities on the mainland. Hong Kong does not have enough space to build them. These schools could also help students from single-parent families, who may not get enough individual attention.
Indeed, there are precedents for “Hong Kong schools on the mainland”. These include the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong. They have experience to offer the government. By having good relationships with the Guangdong and Shenzhen governments, Hong Kong will have fewer obstacles when establishing schools with its neighbors.
Caring for the next generation of Hong Kong citizens, no matter where they live, is vital. I hope the government considers my suggestions and implements measures beneficial to all Hong Kong students.