Team of psychologists to help depressed Hong Kong pupils after four suicides in five days
But one principal says the measure falls short and the real problem lies in an education system that puts too much pressure on students
Schools will receive better student-counselling support from a team of psychologists provided by the government after four pupils committed suicide in five days.
This is one of the measures the Education Bureau introduced after an emergency meeting on Thursday with school, parent and professional representatives.
But a primary school principal said the bureau did not respond to a demand for at least one psychologist based in each school, and claimed the measures failed to address fundamental problems in the education system that put so much pressure on students.
READ MORE: Depression hits half of Hong Kong secondary pupils and a quarter have considered suicide, study finds
After the meeting, education minister Eddie Ng Hak-kim said schools needing extra help in student counselling could invite the team to their campuses. He did not say how many professionals the team would include. He said he would also set up a committee to investigate the problem and recommend preventive solutions within six months.
“Student suicide cases involve the precious life of students; the bureau has unshakable responsibility,” Ng said. “We need to work closely with all stakeholders to tackle related problems.”
Other measures include seminars and lectures by psychologists so that teachers and parents can spot emotional problems early.