According to a recent citywide assessment, the proficiency levels of primary school students in Hong Kong have declined for the second consecutive year in Chinese, English, and mathematics. The 2024 Territory-wide System Assessment (TSA) report from the Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority (HKEAA) revealed that fewer students have reached basic competency in these subjects, with the figures dropping to a 20-year low.
The TSA assesses students’ basic competency in Chinese language, English language, and mathematics, including listening, writing, and reading skills. The percentage of Primary Three students who achieved basic competency in Chinese decreased from 82.4% in 2023 to 80.9% in 2024. Similarly, the percentage of students who reached basic competency in English and mathematics also saw a decline this year.
While the performance of Secondary Three students in Chinese and mathematics showed improvement from last year, there was a decline in English proficiency. Only 67% of Secondary Three students reached basic competency in English, marking the lowest level since the subject was included in the TSA in 2006.
The Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the annual TSA, which was suspended for three years before resuming in 2023. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the Education Bureau stated that this year’s results “remained generally steady” compared to last year. The bureau attributed the decline in academic performance to the impact of the pandemic, stating that it fell within acceptable ranges.
Moving forward, the bureau plans to provide school-level data from the TSA to schools as feedback on learning and teaching. Thematic seminars based on this year’s results will also be held for teachers to further enhance students’ learning abilities.
It is essential for schools to continue adopting diversified teaching strategies and measures to cater to the different needs of students. By raising students’ interests and learning abilities, educators can help improve academic performance and ensure that students reach basic competency levels in Chinese, English, and mathematics.
As the Education Bureau works towards addressing the decline in students’ proficiency levels, it is crucial for educators, parents, and policymakers to collaborate in supporting students’ academic development. By working together, we can help students overcome academic challenges and achieve success in their educational journey.
