The following is issued on behalf of the Education Commission:

The Education Commission (EC) discussed the initial recommendations by the two working groups on the aims of education.

Speaking to the media after the EC meeting today (Friday), the Chairman, Mr Antony Leung said, "The two working groups have completed Stage 1 of the review of academic system, and have submitted their initial recommendations on the aims of education to EC. We generally support the recommendations and agree that different stakeholders, including parents, teachers, schools, government and the community at large have important roles to play in the implementation of education aims. Wide consultation on our initial recommendations will be conducted in January 1999."

EC noted that the Administration was examining in detail the review reports submitted by the University Grants Committee and the Advisory Committee on Teacher Education and Qualifications on teacher education. Members urged the Administration to announce the way forward as soon as possible, taking into account the views expressed at the meeting.

Ends/Friday, December 18, 1998