Hong Kong Schools: Scrap Certificates for Substitute Teachers, Principals Demand

Hong Kong school principals are urging the government to drop a proposed rule requiring substitute teachers to hold official practising certificates. They argue the requirement would create unnecessary hurdles for hiring these urgently needed educators. The call comes as the Education Bureau consults the Department of Justice on the plan. The proposed certificate system was announced in a recent policy address. Officials say it aims to maintain professional standards and meet school needs. Principals fear the extra step will worsen existing shortages by discouraging potential substitutes from entering classrooms quickly.