More than 6,700 Hong Kong teachers quit their jobs during the last academic year which was a 25 percent increase on the year before, government figures given to Legco revealed on Wednesday.

Secondary schools saw about nine percent of teachers resign, while for primary schools the rate was 10 percent. Kindergartens lost 17 percent of their teachers.

Data also showed that the number of new recruits failed to fill many of the gaps the departing teachers left in the city's schools and kindergartens, with more than 1,100 posts remaining vacant.

But speaking to reporters, Education Secretary Christine Choi described the supply of teachers in Hong Kong as "very abundant".

"According to the current numbers, our teacher supply is sufficient. We may even say that the supply is very abundant, based on our supply right now," Choi said.

She said there are a number of reasons for teachers quitting their jobs, including changing schools, joining another industry, pursuing further studies or leaving Hong Kong.

The minister stressed that officials have been keeping a close eye on the manpower situation at schools, and will take appropriate measures to ensure their smooth operation.