Editorial | Hong Kong’s school management must respect teachers
- One of Hong Kong’s biggest school groups has taken action to change policies following the suicide of a teacher; others in the education sector should take heed
The suicide of a teacher in March remains an issue of concern in the education sector, not just because of the disturbing allegations in connection with her supervisor’s management style and the working environment, but also the implications for the wider policy of school management in Hong Kong.
Five months later, there is valid evidence to conclude that the death of Lam Lai-tong had much to do with the unprofessionalism of school principal Law Yuen-yee, who was sacked by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals’ Leo Tung-hai Lee Primary School last Thursday following an in-depth inquiry. The dismissal reflected the severity of the case.
Having spoken to 85 people and held 19 meetings, it was found that Law’s management and the working environment were the major reasons behind Lam’s suicide.
Describing Law’s management style as “unideal”, the panel appointed by the school group said she lacked respect for staff and had failed to fully consult them about new policies. Teachers were therefore facing pressure that could have been avoided.
The school group is to be commended for taking the case seriously. But it raises questions as to why Law could run the school in such way without being noticed.