Editorial | DSE results not the only path to success for Hong Kong students
While the record number of students with perfect scores has understandably drawn attention, there is more to life than university education
As in the past, there are bound to be more losers than winners. Only about 38.5 per cent of 42,795 Diploma of Secondary Education day school candidates, or 16,393 students, attained the minimum entrance requirements for the eight public universities, up from 38.4 per cent, or 15,629, last year. The competition for admission is likely to be slightly more intense this year.
Understandably, attention was drawn to the record number of students with perfect scores, including an “ultimate top scorer” from a school that is not traditionally considered elite. Wang Haibo of Hong Kong Chinese Women’s Club College finished with 5**, the highest score, in four electives, three core subjects and the extended maths module, the first to accomplish the feat since 2018. Also, 15 top scorers from 14 schools achieved a perfect 5** across six subjects this year. Of those, 10 of them were “super top scorers”, as they also earned a 5** for the extended elective maths module. Their success stories are a source of inspiration for students and the wider society.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said there were many options for youngsters and that every attempt would be an opportunity for success and learning. Secretary for Education Christine Choi Yuk-lin said students need not pursue a single route, referring to a variety of higher education options. There is more to life than just a university education. Learning from the experience, be it success or failure, will help youngsters prepare for more challenges to come.