Hong Kong's real estate legislator Abraham Razack to head English Schools Foundation

Abraham Razack, who represents the real estate and construction sector on the Legislative Council, has been confirmed as the next chairman of the English Schools Foundation.

Razack, who will take over from Carlson Tong Ka-shing for a three-year term, will have his work cut out for him as the foundation next year begins the 13-year phase-out of the government's HK$283 million subsidy. Parents of new pupils entering Year One next year are expected to face a fee rise of 23 per cent.

"Looking forward, I am committed to making sure that ESF will continue to grow upon the strong foundation and that our students will be the best that they can be," Razack said of the ESF announcement yesterday.

Tong said the most important task for Razack after he took over would be to finalise a five-year strategic development plan for the foundation. Razack will also have to implement the plan.

"Abraham has been very supportive of ESF and devoted to education," Tong said. "I'm very happy that such a busy man is willing to squeeze in time to contribute to Hong Kong students."

Razack, 68, has represented the real estate and construction sector in Legco since 2000. He was recently appointed non-executive director of the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority. He is also a director of the Hong Kong Mortgage Corporation Limited.