Many people say the English standard of Hong Kong students is declining because of problems in the educational system, but I don't agree.
Learning English is a complicated process. It needs effort from both teachers and students. And the students themselves have to show a keen interest in learning. We can't blame only the Government.
The Government has put much effort into improving students' English standard for years, but students don't seem to appreciate it. Although many schools have carried out the Extensive Reading Scheme, students seldom put their heart into reading. They just skim through them in order to finish the tasks they've been given.
Students are too passive. They do not learn English actively. They rely too much on notes from teachers.
In order to learn English effectively, frequent revision is needed.
The proverb - 'There is no royal road to learning' - makes a lot of sense. You need to be industrious. In addition, you need to learn English through different methods. Reading newspapers, listening to English songs and chatting with your mates in English, are good ways to improve your skills.