Secretary for Education Choi Yuk-lin today attended the launch symposium on the latest results of the Programme for International Student Assessment by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation & Development in Asia to discuss the way forward for education with representatives of the education sector from other regions.

At the symposium's panel discussion session held at the University of Tokyo in Japan, Ms Choi spoke about how Hong Kong’s education system supports students’ learning and well-being, and pointed out that the Programme for International Student Assessment 2022 results had reaffirmed the merits of such an education system.

In terms of education equity, she noted Hong Kong ranked second among countries or economies with high academic achievements, indicating that the socio-economic status of Hong Kong students has minimal bearing on their performance.

She also told participants that the Education Bureau has been optimising the school curriculum and implementing various student development programmes to nurture pupils with positive thinking and strengthen their resilience. Additionally, the bureau assists schools in providing comprehensive student guidance and support services through the Whole School Approach and multidisciplinary collaboration.

To support students with mental health needs, the bureau has strengthened the promotion of home-school co-operation and parent education as well as cross-sectoral collaboration, Ms Choi added.

“The bureau will continue to work with various stakeholders to create a support network and to foster an accepting and caring school culture for students, enhancing their physical and psychological well-being through concerted efforts.”

Yesterday, the education chief paid a courtesy call on Japan-China Friendship Center President & Board Chairperson Masashi Ogawa. She also met Hong Kong students and youngsters in Japan to learn about their study and life experiences.

Ms Choi will pay a courtesy call on Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao and meet Saitama City Board of Education Superintendent Hideko Takei tomorrow. She will also observe class activities and tour the campus facilities of Saitama Municipal Omiya International Secondary School.