Class Notes
Survey reveals alarming rise in cases of bullying at HK secondary schools
A survey conducted by City University and the Hong Kong Playground Association has revealed a worrying increase in the number of bullying cases reported on secondary school campuses. Some 1,552 students from junior secondary schools were interviewed and the survey revealed that aggressive physical acts - including shoving and kicking - had increased by 31 per cent compared with a similar survey in 2001. Threatening behaviour - including taking others' belongings and forcing victims to pay for snacks - had risen by 42 per cent since the earlier survey.
PTU raising funds for quake victims
The Professional Teachers' Union has launched a fund-raising drive in collaboration with the Salvation Army to procure winter clothing for quake victims in Sichuan. The union appealed to 50,000 teachers and local schools for HK$50 donations to buy shoes and socks to help victims ride out the winter.
Ceremony celebrates elderly graduates
A graduation ceremony in recognition of 38 elderly students' passion for learning was held at City University this week. Averaging 64 years of age, the elderly learners completed a four-month programme spanning various disciplines, including Chinese culture, social science and business management, at the university's Elder Academy, which is jointly organised by the Labour and Welfare Bureau and the Elderly Commission.
Awards for research achievements
A total of 51 postgraduate students of various disciplines have received awards from the University of Hong Kong in recognition of their research achievements. Six students, including Ma Kwai-yee, a pathology graduate who has identified the stem cells that lead to liver cancer, were awarded the prestigious Li Ka-shing Prize.
New scholarship programme launched
The Independent Schools Foundation Academy at Cyberport has announced the introduction of an annual scholarship programme starting from 2012. A maximum of three Year 12 students will receive a scholarship covering full tuition and boarding fees for up to four years at any university in the world.
