| Education System in Hong Kong |
The Hong Kong education system is based on the British model, although these days the medium of education is Chinese. The first 9 years are compulsory although most students complete all 12. Even primary school is highly competitive. During the 6 years of this a series of examinations are taken. Subjects include chinese, english, mathematics, music and arts, science, social studies, and physical education.
Schooling continues at secondary school of which the first 3 years are compulsory within a standardized academic program. In years 4 to 6 though, students may select 2 to 3 elective subjects from a choice of 20, in addition to their prescribed chinese, english, liberal studies and mathematics programs. Other options include a b-tec course.
The Chinese government is committed to life-long adult education post-school. This includes professional training, as well as a huge range of non-degree programs provided by universities and other institutions. Languages including English, mandarin and Japanese are especially popular.
Tertiary education is a focus of many Hong Kong citizens in a city-state that boasts 8 universities. Of these the oldest is the University of Hong Kong that is regarded as one of the most prestigious in all of Asia, and is illustrated here.
It was established in 1910 on the foundations of the Hong Kong College of Medicine. Over and above a school of professional and continuing education, today it boasts faculties of architecture, arts, business & economics, dentistry, education, engineering, law, medicine, science, and social studies.
