Due to signs of further proliferation of the COVID-19 epidemic in Hong Kong, the Education Bureau today announced its decision to further tighten up measures in all schools.

In a letter issued to secondary schools, primary schools, kindergartens, kindergartens and child care centres, special schools and schools offering non-formal curriculum, the bureau said the decision was made after thorough consideration and consultation with experts.

It explained that as the number of confirmed coronavirus cases continues to increase, schools should adopt contingency measures to complete all examinations within two to three days so as to commence summer vacation at the earliest.

Apart from the examinations, schools should suspend all on-campus activities for two weeks, including make-up classes and extra-curricular activities at all levels from July 15 to 28. Unless absolutely necessary, students should not go back to school.

All these measures are also applicable to face-to-face teaching activities of schools offering non-formal curriculum, including tutorial schools.

The bureau noted that teachers and students will understandably be disappointed and feel helpless having experienced months of class suspension and early commencement of the summer holiday after just a brief period of schooling.

It expressed hope that students could take a chance to relax, remain healthy physically and mentally, as well as have some learning activities at home during the summer holiday.

The bureau emphasised that during this period it expects schools to provide necessary academic and emotional support to students.

As the new school year will commence in August for some schools and kindergartens, the bureau stressed that it will maintain close liaison with health experts and the school sector.

Taking into account the development of the epidemic, it will also finalise and announce arrangements for the new school year as soon as possible.

The bureau announced on July 10 that all secondary schools, primary schools, special schools and kindergartens would commence their summer holiday starting July 13. Class levels with important examinations to hold may complete them within this week.

Regarding other miscellaneous issues that have to be completed on campus, schools may arrange students to return in batches.