I am writing to express my opinion about the public examinations necessary to maintain high standards in Hong Kong's education system. Students' standards are dropping lower and lower. The Education Department - despite its reforms - maintains public exams as they are a key way to improve the situation. But why are student standards so low? There are two main reasons. First, the system has been changed. Several years ago, we only had two universities, the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University. Students had to either study very hard to win university places or go to work. But now, there are eight universities: students with lower standards are being accepted, and their standards will be lower when they leave. Secondly, society has changed. Twenty years ago, students were aware that 'hard work equals a good future'. Now, young people dream of becoming millionaires through gambling, property, becoming pop singers or movie stars. Even if they do study hard many will not find work after graduating. To solve these complicated problems, complicated methods should be used. And one is to hold public exams. They may not be perfect, but they give students direction, draw out their abilities and let gifted students show their strengths, as well as provide the pressure students need to ensure they work hard. STANLEY CHAN HO Tsuen Wan
