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The following is issued on behalf of the Education Commission:
The Chairman of the Education Commission, Dr Moses Cheng, welcomed the education initiatives announced in the 2013 Policy Address by the Chief Executive today (January 16).
"As the Chairman of the Education Commission, I am pleased that the Government continues to invest in education to nurture our talents and promote the sustainable development of Hong Kong.
"I share the importance of further enhancing the quality of kindergarten education. I hope that the Education Bureau will set up a committee as soon as possible to explore the feasibility of implementing free kindergarten education in Hong Kong and make specific recommendations. During this transitional period, I welcome the Government's provision of an additional one-off grant to kindergartens joining the Pre-primary Education Voucher Scheme to improve the teaching environment and facilities, thereby enhancing the quality of kindergarten education," Dr Cheng said.
"I am also glad to note that the Government continues to provide multiple study pathways for our students. In tandem with the parallel development of the publicly funded and self-financing post-secondary sectors, the Qualifications Framework will be further developed and the Industry Training Advisory Committee will strengthen the collaboration with education and training providers so as to integrate education, training, business and employment seamlessly.
"I believe that the Education Bureau will be working closely with the stakeholders in mapping out the implementation details. The Education Commission will also contribute its advice with a view to unleashing the full potentials of every citizen as well as achieving all-round education and lifelong learning in the education development of Hong Kong," he added.
Ends/Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Issued at HKT 16:55
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