The Chinese language education for ethnic minorities in Hong Kong does not meet international human rights standards. The United Nations Human Rights Committee has shown concern over the issue in March 2013.
According to Census 2011, ethnic minorities under the age of 15 constitute 5.38% of the population of the same age group. In some ‘designated schools’, up to 99% of the student population is ethnic minorities.
The kindergarten education stage is a crucial period for ethnic minority school children to build a sound foundation in their Chinese language abilities. The children's Chinese proficiency also affects whether their parents place them into mainstream or designated primary schools.
Following is a question by the Dr Hon Chiang Lai-wan and a written reply by the Secretary for Education, Mr Eddie Ng Hak-kim, in the Legislative Council today (November 14):
Question:
Following is a question by the Hon Emily Lau and a written reply by the Secretary for Education, Mr Michael Suen, in the Legislative Council today (May 9):
