At least two primary schools at risk of closing due to insufficient enrolment have announced plans to merge with other institutions.

A record 15 schools – one government and 14 subsidised institutions – have been barred from running a primary one class in the new academic year after failing to secure at least 16 pupils.

The Education Bureau said earlier institutions with low enrolment were given options to merge with another school, close, or go private.

One of them, Fresh Fish Traders' School in Tai Kok Tsui, announced on Tuesday that it has decided to work with a "like-minded" sponsoring body in the district on the merger and submitted an application to the bureau.

"We firmly believe that this merger can consolidate the high-quality resources of both schools, create synergies and provide pupils with a more stable and exceptional learning environment and a richer learning experience," the school's principal, Sze Chi-king, said in a circular.

"This move not only safeguards the well-being of current pupils, but is also a responsible decision for the long-term development of the school."

Meanwhile, the Five Districts Business Welfare Association School – Chief Executive John Lee's alma mater – said it would merge with another institution to continue the school's mission in nurturing talent, and that the sponsoring body is currently in talks on the matter.

The Sham Shui Po school said in a circular that parents are expected to receive a consultation document later in April, which will spell out details of the merger, including transitional arrangements.



Edited by Edmond Fong