I agree with the sentiments expressed in the letter headlined, 'Producing mediocrity' (South China Morning Post, November 14).
During my working life I have encountered so many people who lack self-motivation and the power to be innovative and to communicate well. Outstanding individuals are few and far between and most people would fit into the category of mediocre.
This state of affairs has probably been caused by our outdated fact-feeding education system.
My children attend a prestigious school in Hong Kong. They have to digest so many facts and sit too many tests and examinations.
No time is left for recreation. This education system does not meet our present needs.
Our graduates have to compete with their counterparts in the mainland and they have to excel. The present education system must be completely overhauled, if Hong Kong wants to maintain its competitiveness and to survive. Why do we still follow the British system of splitting secondary education into science and arts streams? Also, why do we need to teach the students too many subjects? The junior students only need the basic skills and specialisation should be left to the universities. Secondary school students only need to study six subjects in addition to sports: Languages - English and Chinese compulsory, with options in other languages.
Physical sciences combining physics, chemistry and biology.
