A review of the academic structure, from pre-primary to tertiary level, will lay the groundwork for a knowledge-based society Education has been given top priority, with total recurrent expenditure rising to $44 billion despite the economic downturn.
This was revealed by Tung Chee-hwa when he made his second Policy Address.
In his speech, he stressed that a good education was the starting point for the development of an enlightened, knowledge-based society.
Mr Tung said education would continue to be the single biggest item of recurrent expenditure in the next financial year.
'To take Hong Kong forward in an increasingly competitive world, we must give education top priority,' the Chief Executive said. On the review of the management and organisation of the Education Department, Mr Tung said public consultation on the findings began in July.
The review suggested a restructuring of the department, allowing it to focus more clearly on serving its key clients - schools, students and the com munity. This would help enhance the department's professionalism, particularly by drawing on the expertise of the education sector.
