Hong Kong's students must master English to ensure the country's global competitiveness. This was the message today from Secretary for Education Michael Suen, speaking at the Heung Hoi Ching Kok Lin Association's Secondary & Primary Schools & Kindergartens.

He shared with students views raised among member economies at the fourth APEC Education Ministerial Meeting he attended earlier this month.

"Discussions focused on enhancing the competencies of students and developing the knowledge, skills and attitudes students must possess to face the challenges of the 21st century. Member economies endorsed the priority area of encouraging students to learn each other's languages. This priority is seen as a key way to strengthen youths' competitiveness in the global market and to understand other cultures."

Mr Suen said many member economies recognise the importance of English in the international arena and in the business community, adding they are committed to providing quality education by creating more opportunities to enhance students' ability to communicate in English.

He said member economies recognise teacher quality is critical to enhancing English learning, and teacher training and sharing of teaching materials should be encouraged.

"International trade and financial businesses are mainly conducted in English. As Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan city our young generation should possess a good command of English to contribute to the development of our nation," he said.

English upgrades

Mr Suen said the Government has focused on promoting English teaching in recent years and is reviewing the effectiveness of these measures and exploring improvements.

"We aim to further strengthen training of teachers and encourage English language teachers to further their studies to achieve higher standards. The Native-speaking English Teachers scheme will also be improved."

The Education Bureau has implemented measures to improve students' English proficiency. They include:

* the provision of native English-speaking teachers for primary and secondary schools to create an English-speaking environment and to liven up the teaching and learning of English;

* encouraging students to read English books and materials extensively. Activities like debating, drama and English camps are organised to arouse students' interest in learning English;

* improved teacher training, where all language teachers should attain required qualifications and standards. Teachers teaching in English are regularly taking part in professional development and training; and,

* financial support to raise English standards and to improve opportunities for teachers to pursue further studies and to participate in immersion programmes overseas.