Speech by Mr Kevin YEUNG, JP Secretary for Education at Maryknoll Convent School (Primary Section) Primary 6 Graduation Ceremony

Speech by Mr Kevin YEUNG, JP

Secretary for Education

at Maryknoll Convent School (Primary Section)

Primary 6 Graduation Ceremony on 2 July 2019

Sr Marilu, Ms Ho, Ms Yuen, distinguished guests, parents, teachers and students,

　　May I first extend my congratulations to all graduates and award winners on this joyful occasion.  I believe that today is a memorable day for each and every one of them, as well as their beloved parents and caring teachers who take pride in their achievements.

2.　This is a special year which ushers in the 95th anniversary of Maryknoll Convent School (Primary Section) and marks the 10th anniversary of the declaration of the school building as a unique monument of architectural significance. The Maryknoll Sisters and the school management have set an inspiring example for all students, through their dedication and commitment to providing all-round, quality and affordable education in Hong Kong, and through their participation in an array of social services and community projects such as heritage preservation.

3.　All along, Maryknoll has promoted students’ whole-person development through the provision of a broad and balanced curriculum with a wide array of learning activities. Emphasis is placed on the all-round development of students by accommodating students’ interests, unleashing their potential and extending their experience beyond classroom learning.  I am pleased to learn that students embody the Maryknoll spirit of serving with humility through a comprehensive Service Learning Programme organised by the school.  Students are provided with ample opportunities to participate in different kinds of community services to understand the essence of the School’s Strategic Focus – "Serve Home, Country, World".  Indeed, Maryknoll’s philosophy of education ties in well with our Bureau’s new initiative of providing enhanced support for schools to widen students’ learning experiences.

4.　Starting from the 2019/20 school year, the Government will disburse a new recurrent Life-wide Learning Grant, with which schools could further enhance their efforts in organising more out-of-classroom and experiential learning activities for students. These activities may cover various curriculum areas, such as humanities, STEM education, physical and aesthetic development, and moral and civic education.  To support schools and teachers, the Government will roll out other initiatives starting next school year, including the implementation of an all-graduate teaching force policy in all public sector primary and secondary schools and the "One Executive Officer for Each School" policy to enhance the administrative support for public sector schools.

5.　Dear graduates, today marks the end of your primary education, but at the same time opens a new chapter in your journey of learning. Challenges are awaiting ahead, but I trust that you are all well prepared for tests and trials.  Building on its past achievements and excellent tradition, and with the joint efforts of the visionary management, dedicated staff, and supportive alumni and parents, I am sure that your alma mater will continue to nurture more talents who serve "Home, Country and World" and sail the ocean of knowledge courageously.

6.　Finally, I wish Maryknoll Convent School and all graduates and award winners every success in the years to come. May I also wish everyone here and their family good health and happiness.  Thank you.