Today, Hong Kong’s early childhood education services are highly regarded worldwide. Since August 2017, preschool education has been included in Hong Kong’s 15-year free education scheme, under which half-day kindergarten tuition fees across the territory are fully waived.
During the rollout of the 15-year free education initiative, the Hong Kong Government has placed great emphasis on developing education. Relevant funding support has become an important allocation item within the Hong Kong Budget. The beneficiaries include preschool-aged children, parents, in-service early childhood education professionals, and non-profit early childhood education institutions, as well as teacher-training organizations and a cohort of pre-service trainees. This is truly an era filled with grace—worthy of appreciation and praise.
Looking back on the history and policy development of early childhood education in Hong Kong, Chairperson of the School Management Committee Dr. Chan Wai-yi (Chairperson Du Chen Hui-yi as written) has served the education sector for more than 60 years as the School Supervisor. She is an experienced educator and a pioneer in early childhood education. With the support and sustained efforts of many kindergarten educators and senior colleagues, together we have continued to devote our hearts to nurturing children, keeping pace with the times, and advocating persistently for improved early childhood education policies and welfare benefits alongside the Government.
By working together and pooling our collective wisdom, we strive to bring well-being and strong momentum to the development of preschool education—laying a solid foundation for a bright path forward.
