The success of the academic structure reform hinges not only on the firm commitment of the education sector, but also parents' cooperation and community support, including understanding and acceptance of the challenges which lie ahead, Permanent Secretary for Education & Manpower Fanny Law says.

In the Foreword of the Realising the vision of 3-3-4 column launched o the bureau's website today, Mrs Law said the finalisation of the implementation timetable for the new academic structure for senior secondary and higher education is the most significant education policy in the last academic year.

The "3-3-4" refers to three years of secondary education, three years of senior secondary education and four years of undergraduate university education.

"The new structure has far-reaching implications for the education sector and the community as a whole," she said.

In October 2004, the bureau published a consultation document on the proposed new academic structure. There was overwhelming support and numerous constructive opinions.

Having taken into account all the feedback, a report entitled The New Academic Structure for Senior Secondary Education & Higher Education - Action Plan for Investing in the Future of Hong Kong was published in May to take forward the implementation of the 3-3-4 academic structure.

In view of the extensive impact of the reform, including senior secondary and university curricula, new ways of learning, public examination and university admission criteria, and a wider set of post-school pathways for young people, the first year of implementation will be 2009/10 - allowing ample time for all to be fully prepared. 

The first group of students to benefit from the new academic structure will be the Primary 6 graduates of this school year.

Progress reports to be provided online

Mrs Law said she will share the rationale behind the changes and report progress on particular aspects of the reform online in the coming year.