Just now, the official website of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government issued a press release announcing that due to the continued deterioration of the new crown pneumonia epidemic, face-to-face classes and classes in all kindergartens, primary and secondary schools (including special schools and schools offering non-local courses) in Hong Kong will be suspended this Wednesday (December 2). School activities until the beginning of the school’s Christmas holidays.
As for private schools that provide non-formal courses (generally called cram schools), face-to-face classes are suspended for two weeks.
A spokesman for the Education Bureau said: "The Bureau discussed the relevant arrangements with the industry earlier and understands that schools need to make some arrangements before the suspension of face-to-face classes, including students studying at home, primary six submission of sub-examinations and graduating class learning. We will send a letter tomorrow. School-related detailed arrangements, so that the school can prepare as soon as possible."
He continued: "This Council understands that the industry and parents are very concerned about the arrangements for the placement of sub-examinations in primary schools and the public examinations for sixth form students under the epidemic. Under the premise of suspension of face-to-face classes and school activities, the Council will discuss with the industry to deal with it. The plan allows the school to consider arranging the sub-examination for primary six according to school-based needs, and for the graduating class to return to school to prepare for public examinations or conduct internal examinations."
The Education Bureau reminds schools to take measures and corresponding arrangements during the suspension of face-to-face classes. Schools should flexibly use different teaching methods to allow students to continue learning at home.
During this period, the school must keep the school premises open as usual, so that students who lack care at home can return to school.
Schools must also arrange for staff on duty, handle school affairs and answer parent inquiries, take care of students who have returned to school, and ensure that epidemic prevention measures are taken and the campus environment is clean and hygienic.
Parents should take preventive measures against coronavirus disease and pay attention to the health of their children. Avoid taking their children to crowded places with poor air circulation. School children should maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and take adequate rest to enhance immunity.
If students have any physical discomfort (even if the symptoms are very mild), they should not return to school and should consult a doctor as soon as possible to obtain appropriate diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.