SLW visits secondary school (with photos)
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     The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, visited Chang Pui Chung Memorial School in Tseung Kwan O today (July 5) to gain an understanding of the school's efforts in helping students develop their creativity and potential. He took the opportunity to encourage the students to learn to set and pursue their own goals.

     Mr Cheung was pleased to learn that the school attaches great importance to the development of students' multiple intelligences by designing a curriculum that caters for students' interests, abilities and prospects. The school's teachers also take into account each student's aptitude in order to stimulate their interest to learn and build up their self-confidence.

     Accompanied by the school principal, Mr Choi Wai-man, Mr Cheung toured school facilities including the Technology Learning Centre, solar facilities, hydroponics greenhouse, farming corner and lecture room. He also watched a singing contest in the campus.

     Expressing appreciation for the school's promotion of environmental protection as well as innovation and technology, Mr Cheung pointed out that both areas are industries with potential for further development. To promote diversification and long-term development of the Hong Kong economy and enhance Hong Kong's competitiveness, the Government is taking measures to promote development of six priority industries that include the environmental and innovation and technology industries, Mr Cheung noted.

     Mr Cheung was particularly impressed by the one-year mentorship scheme for all Form One new students, under which all teachers in the school are involved in providing all-round support for individual students. He said that the concept is similar to the Child Development Fund scheme that was set up by the Government in 2008. The $300 million Child Development Fund scheme aims to foster the long-term development of children aged between 10 and 16 through its three major components, namely personal development plans, a mentorship programme and targeted savings. The first two batches of projects altogether benefited 2,270 children and two more batches will be rolled out in the coming 12 months to benefit 5,000 more children.

     During a chat with a group of students, Mr Cheung encouraged them to make the most of schooling to enrich themselves. He also reminded the students of the importance of pursuing lifelong learning to equip themselves for opportunities and challenges in future.

Ends/Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Issued at HKT 15:22

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