Author: Cheung Wai-Man

Edinburgh Airport resumed operations late Thursday morning following a temporary suspension of all flights due to a significant IT failure affecting its air traffic control provider, though passengers should anticipate continued widespread delays and cancellations throughout the day. The network disruption, originating within the Air Navigation Solutions (ANSL) system, forced the grounding of aircraft and the diversion of inbound flights for over an hour, creating a substantial backlog that airlines and airport services are now diligently working to clear.

The airport confirmed the operational halt at 9:29 a.m., preventing both arrivals and departures. The failure, which ANSL manages, was confirmed to be localized and unrelated to other technological outages experienced by major online platforms earlier in the day. During the suspension, some arriving aircraft were rerouted, including a Delta service from New York diverted to Dublin and several British and European flights sent to nearby Glasgow. Passengers already onboard were held on the tarmac for extended periods.

Service officially restarted at 10:39 a.m., but the flow of traffic remains bottlenecked. Airlines are grappling with displaced aircraft and crew schedules, translating into numerous cancelled services and lengthy wait times stretching into the evening. Travelers on the ground reported initial confusion, with terminal display boards sometimes suggesting passengers proceed to gates even as public announcements confirmed the core system failure. One departing passenger noted receiving conflicting information regarding the cause—initially hearing about runway conditions before learning the technical fault was responsible.

Passenger Rights and Compensation

While operations are stabilizing, the disruption triggers specific protections for affected travelers under U.K. regulations. Airlines maintain a duty of care, meaning they must provide essential support for passengers experiencing significant delays or cancellations. This typically includes meals, refreshments, and, if necessary, overnight accommodation.

For those whose flights were cancelled, the carrier must offer a choice between a full refund for the unused portion of the journey or rebooking on an alternative route at the earliest opportunity.

However, eligibility for direct monetary compensation is constrained by the principle of “extraordinary circumstances.” Since the air traffic control issue is defined as a technological fault beyond the airline’s direct control, most passengers are unlikely to qualify for financial payouts, although their rights to care, refunds, or rerouting remain active. The National Air Traffic Services (NATS) is assisting Edinburgh Airport in managing the extensive ripple effect of the outage.

Advice for Disrupted Travelers

Travelers scheduled to fly should immediately contact their respective airline for the most current status update and must allow extra time for check-in and security processes.

Experts advise passengers with disrupted journeys to:

• Check Policies: Review their airline’s specific policies regarding care, rebooking, and refunds.
• Retain Receipts: Keep detailed records and receipts for any reasonable expenses incurred (e.g., necessary meals or transport) if the airline fails to provide assistance.
• Remain Patient: Expect congested movement and communications as the airport and carriers attempt to normalize schedules after the abrupt operational halt.

Airline and air traffic control officials affirmed they are collaborating closely to minimize further disruption and expedite the return to standard operations across the network. The incident underscores the fragility of global air travel dependent on complex, integrated IT infrastructure.

EDINBURGH, Scotland — Operations at Edinburgh Airport were completely suspended early Friday morning following a major IT system failure that crippled services provided by the air traffic control vendor. Both departures and arrivals ceased operating as specialist teams initiated urgent efforts to repair the technical fault. The grounding of all flights has led to immediate disruptions, and airport authorities are advising all affected passengers to secure the latest information directly from their respective airlines regarding specific flight status changes.

The disruption began as the busy travel day commenced, forcing a complete operational pause. While the airport did not specify the nature or scope of the catastrophic failure, sources indicated the issue resided within critical systems managed by the external air traffic service provider. This type of technical malfunction immediately compromises safety protocols, necessitating the immediate halt of all runway activity.

Urgent Efforts Underway to Restore Services

In a brief statement, airport officials confirmed that the technical issue was being addressed with the highest priority, emphasizing the deployment of skilled engineers focused on restoring normal service operations “as quickly as possible.” The priority remains safety and the quick resumption of air traffic flow once system integrity is confirmed.

Airport spokespersons cautioned that while repair efforts are underway, updates will be limited until significant progress is made. They strongly reiterated the instruction for travelers not to proceed to the airport without first confirming their flight details directly with their carrier.

Steps for Affected Travelers

• Do Not Go to the Airport: Travelers should avoid heading to Edinburgh Airport until their flight status is confirmed as operational.
• Contact Your Airline: Specific flight details, rebooking options, or cancellation policies are managed solely by individual carriers (e.g., easyJet, Ryanair, British Airways).
• Monitor Official Channels: Keep track of the Edinburgh Airport website and official social media feeds for general updates on the system restoration timeline.

Impact on Regional Connectivity

The indefinite suspension of services at Edinburgh, a crucial hub for both European and transatlantic travel, creates a complex logistical nightmare, affecting thousands of passengers. Delays and cancellations originating at Edinburgh will inevitably cause cascading schedule complications across various flight networks throughout the United Kingdom and continental Europe.

This incident underscores the fragility of modern air travel infrastructure, which relies heavily on complex, integrated digital systems. When key components, particularly those governing air traffic control, fail, the resulting shutdown is total and immediate. While inconvenience is guaranteed for passengers, industry experts highlight that the decisive action to ground all flights demonstrates adherence to strict safety standards, prioritizing passenger and crew security above schedule maintenance.

The aviation industry will be closely watching the restoration timeline. If the technical failure proves complex, the ensuing service disruptions could last well into the weekend, severely impacting regional connectivity during a peak travel period. Further updates are expected late Friday once specialized teams can assess the extent of the system damage and provide a definitive repair timeline.

China’s centralized anti-corruption bodies have announced the expulsion of former National Railway Administration head, Fei Dongbin, from the Communist Party of China (CPC) and his dismissal from public office. The sweeping action follows a substantive investigation into what authorities deem serious violations of both party discipline and national law.

The decision, made public on December 5, 2025, by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) and the National Commission of Supervision (NCS), caps a high-level probe involving a former senior official who was also an alternate member of the 20th CPC Central Committee. As a result of the findings, Fei’s illicit financial gains have been confiscated, and his case has been transferred to judicial authorities to determine potential criminal charges.

Investigation Reveals Abuse of Power

The multifaceted investigation concluded that Mr. Fei demonstrated profound political shortcomings, engaging in opportunistic behavior and political maneuvering while in office. Investigators specifically accused him of neglecting core ideological principles and failing to cooperate fully with the internal inquiry. Furthermore, he was found to have disregarded the CPC’s fundamental eight-point rules aimed at promoting administrative efficiency and ethical conduct.

According to the disciplinary watchdogs, Fei systematically abused his substantial authority. He allegedly engineered advantages for various parties across multiple domains, including project contracting, routine business operations, and personnel promotions. In exchange for these official favors, he accepted significant amounts of money and valuable assets, thereby corrupting his official capacities.

Consequences for Senior Leadership

The disciplinary measures are rigorous and are applied under both the party’s internal rules and state laws. The immediate penalties include the aforementioned:

• Expulsion from the Communist Party of China: Removing him from the country’s sole ruling political entity.
• Dismissal from Public Office: Stripping him of all state-held positions.
• Confiscation of Illegal Proceeds: Seizing all assets deemed acquired through corrupt activities.

The transfer of his file to prosecutorial organs signifies a crucial transition from political accountability to criminal liability. This step is necessary to establish whether the corruption violations meet the threshold for prosecution under China’s criminal code.

This case underscores Beijing’s continuous, high-intensity campaign against corruption, which has targeted officials at every rank, often referred to as “tigers and flies.” The removal of a former senior leader in a critical infrastructure sector like the National Railway Administration serves as a powerful deterrent, signaling that professional achievements or previous party standing do not grant immunity from ethical and legal scrutiny. The ongoing efforts aim to bolster public trust and enhance the transparency and integrity of China’s sprawling governmental apparatus.

Hong Kong residents are poised to observe a stunning celestial event tonight as the full Moon reaches its closest orbital point to Earth, marking the final supermoon of 2025. This astronomical alignment, known colloquially as a supermoon, offers sky-watchers a noticeably larger and 30% brighter lunar display than an average full Moon, providing a dramatic conclusion to the year’s astronomical calendar.

Understanding the Supermoon

The term “supermoon” describes a full moon occurring when the Moon is near perigee, the point in its elliptical orbit where it is closest to Earth. Due to this proximity, the Moon’s apparent diameter appears approximately 14% greater than when it is farthest away (apogee). In Western folklore, the December full Moon is traditionally referred to as the Cold Moon.

This evening’s event culminates a series of three supermoons recorded this year, following similar occurrences on October 7 and November 5. According to astronomy experts, this particular demonstration is the second-largest supermoon of 2025, solidifying its status as a must-see spectacle for local stargazers.

Maximizing Your Viewing Experience

Fortunately, this visual phenomenon requires no specialized equipment and can be enjoyed simply with the naked eye. However, to enhance the experience and reveal intricate lunar details, simple optical aids are highly recommended.

• Binoculars: Using binoculars with 7x to 12x magnification will clearly resolve prominent geographical features on the Moon, such as the major maria (dark plains) and distinct crater formations.
• Location: For optimal viewing, experts advise seeking out locations with open horizons and minimal light interference. Prime urban settings, like elevated parks, extensive waterfront promenades, or open rooftops across Hong Kong, offer unhindered sightlines. Coastal areas are particularly popular for witnessing the Moon ascend magnificently over the sea.

Capturing the Cold Moon: Tips for Smartphone Photographers

Photographing the Moon effectively with a smartphone requires specific adjustments to capture the stark details of the lunar surface rather than an overexposed glare. A stable platform is crucial:

1. Stabilize: Utilize a tripod or stable surface to eliminate camera shake.
2. ISO Settings: Set the ISO to a low level, typically near 100.
3. Shutter Speed: Use a relatively fast shutter speed, generally between 1/125s and 1/500s.
4. Focus & Exposure: Lock the focus on the Moon. Crucially, manually reduce the exposure compensation until the lunar surface details become crisp and clearly defined.

Amateur astronomers and casual observers alike should seize this opportunity. Following tonight’s event, viewers will need to wait until the next calendar year for an opportunity to witness a comparable display of the lunar perigee in conjunction with a full Moon.

Air China, China Southern, and China Eastern continue to offer flexible booking options for travelers between mainland China and Japan, citing ongoing geopolitical tension as the primary factor for the extended relief.

China’s three dominant state-owned carriers—Air China, China Southern Airlines, and China Eastern Airlines—have prolonged their complimentary refund and rebooking policies for all flights servicing routes between China and Japan. This extension, which applies to tickets for travel scheduled through March 28, 2026, grants passengers the opportunity to cancel or alter their itineraries without incurring typical change or cancellation fees. The decision comes amid continued strain in Sino-Japanese diplomatic relations and follows a previously implemented policy set to expire on December 31, 2025.

Policy Targets China-Japan Itineraries

The special handling notices issued by the airlines cover all tickets associated with travel to, from, or through Japan. Specifically, the waivers apply to passengers ticketed on flights that are part of a larger journey involving one of the stipulated countries, regardless of the flight segment’s origin or destination within the specified region.

Key features of the extended policy:

• Eligibility: Tickets purchased for flights arriving, departing, or transiting through Japan.
• Travel Window: Travel dates occurring on or before March 28, 2026.
• Waiver: Full fee waiver for refunds (cancellation) or itinerary modifications (rebooking).

This move provides significant financial and logistical flexibility for travelers, including business executives, tourists, and expatriates, who may be hesitant to finalize travel plans given the unpredictable nature of international policy shifts.

Responding to Geopolitical Pressures

Airline industry analysts suggest that the extension is a direct response to prevailing instability in the bilateral relationship between Beijing and Tokyo. While airlines typically reserve such comprehensive waiver policies for operational disruptions like severe weather or public health crises, the use of blanket waivers due to diplomatic friction underscores the depth of the current difficulties.

According to a spokesperson for a regional aviation consultancy, “When major national carriers proactively extend travel waivers beyond standard operational need, it signals an expectation of continued low demand or potential regulatory interference on these routes. It’s a mechanism to retain passenger trust and liquidity during a politically sensitive period.”

By preemptively offering zero-cost changes, the airlines aim to manage capacity dynamically and mitigate the risk of mass cancellations closer to the date of travel, preserving customer loyalty even as broader political tensions shape travel sentiment.

Implications for Future Travel Planning

For customers holding existing bookings or planning travel between China and Japan in early 2026, this policy extension offers peace of mind. Travelers are encouraged to review the specific guidelines posted on the respective airlines’ official websites, as the exact implementation process for processing refunds or changes may vary slightly between Air China, China Southern, and China Eastern.

Although the policy offers immediate relief, its expiration date of March 28, 2026, suggests that the carriers hope for a normalization of the operating environment or at least increased predictability in demand following the first quarter of the year. Travelers planning trips beyond this spring should monitor official government and airline advisories closely for potential future adjustments. The extension emphasizes that in today’s globalized travel market, geopolitical concerns are often as critical as operational safety when assessing travel viability.

Hong Kong authorities have extended the drone flight restriction zone surrounding the site of a devastating November fire in Tai Po, citing ongoing public safety concerns and the need to protect forensic and recovery operations. Following the serious blaze at Hong Fuk Court on November 26, which resulted in significant casualties, police announced Thursday that the 500-meter no-fly zone, initially set to expire on December 7, will now remain in effect until 8 a.m. on December 14. This decisive action is aimed at ensuring the unobstructed continuation of comprehensive investigation and recovery efforts following the catastrophic incident.

Background of the Incident

The area near Hong Fuk Court became a focal point of intense emergency response after a severe No. 5 fire rating incident struck the residential building on the morning of November 26. The high rating signifies a blaze of the utmost seriousness requiring maximum mobilization of resources. In the immediate aftermath, police implemented the initial drone restriction at 8 a.m. on November 27 to prevent interference with emergency services, including fire crews, medical personnel, and structural engineers assessing the damage. This essential measure protected the airspace crucial for potential aerial surveillance by authorities and the safe movement of personnel on the ground.

Maintaining Operational Integrity

The decision to further prolong the ban underscores the complexity of the post-disaster phase. Investigation teams require a sterile environment to meticulously document the scene, gather evidence, and ensure that all recovery procedures are conducted with the utmost safety. Unauthorized drone flights pose significant hazards, including the risk of collision with official aircraft, visual obstruction for ground teams, and potential disturbance of sensitive evidence.

The police have issued a stern reminder regarding the legal standing of the restriction. Operating any small unmanned aircraft (i.e., consumer drones) within the designated 500-meter radius around the fire site without explicit official authorization constitutes a serious offense. This regulation is strictly enforced to maintain order and protect ongoing operations.

Penalties for Violation

Authorities emphasize the severe penalties facing individuals who disregard the extended no-fly mandate. Offenders found launching or operating drones illegally within the restricted zone face maximum sanctions under Hong Kong law. These penalties include a hefty fine up to HK$100,000 and the possibility of imprisonment for up to two years.

Safeguarding the Community and Investigation

The extended restriction is a direct response to the imperative of public safety and operational efficiency following a major urban tragedy. By limiting unauthorized access to the airspace above and immediately surrounding the devastated complex, authorities can proceed efficiently with necessary work, including structural assessments, debris removal, and the forensic investigation into the cause and circumstances of the fatal fire. Residents and drone enthusiasts are urged to comply fully with the extended regulations, recognizing their role in facilitating the smooth conclusion of official duties at the site of the catastrophic incident. The community must remain vigilant and respect the boundaries set until the area is deemed fully safe and operational normality returns.

French President Emmanuel Macron raised significant concerns among European counterparts this week, warning that a looming U.S. administration under Donald Trump might pressure Kyiv into ceding territory absent robust security guarantees. This cautionary message signals a potential rift between Washington and Europe regarding the eventual resolution of the accelerating conflict in Ukraine.

The disclosure, extracted from a leaked conference call transcript reported by Germany’s Der Spiegel, detailed Macron’s fears that the U.S. could “betray” Ukraine on territorial integrity as part of expedited peace negotiations. The French leader reportedly shared his assessment with key figures, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, amidst intensifying efforts by the current Trump administration to broker an agreement between Moscow and Kyiv.

Mounting Transatlantic Tensions Over Peace Framework

This confidential discussion followed reports that the U.S. had advanced a multi-point framework demanding substantial territorial and military concessions from Ukraine, unsettling numerous European capitals. The leak underscores widening differences over the strategy for halting the conflict, which is nearing its fourth year.

The diplomatic flurry included a five-hour meeting in Moscow between Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and Russian President Vladimir Putin. While the Kremlin described the talks as “necessary and useful,” they also noted fundamental elements deemed “unacceptable.”

European leaders participating in the call delivered sharply critical assessments of the U.S. diplomatic maneuvers. Chancellor Merz cautioned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to exercise caution, alleging that U.S. negotiators were “playing games” with both European interests and Ukraine’s future. Finnish President Alexander Stubb urged allies to remain united, stressing the importance of not leaving Zelensky “alone with these guys,” a sentiment echoed by Rutte.

Other participants included the prime ministers of Poland, Italy, Denmark, and Norway, alongside the presidents of the European Council and the European Commission. The vital discussion occurred just before Witkoff and Kushner met with Russian officials, though a senior White House official confirmed that U.S. envoys were scheduled to reconvene with Ukraine’s chief negotiator, Rustem Umerov, shortly thereafter. President Trump reportedly conveyed that his envoys found the Russian leader ready for a deal.

Europe Pushes Back on Diplomatic Exclusions

Following the Moscow talks, European leaders had hoped to schedule immediate follow-up consultations with the U.S. representatives. Merz reportedly offered to invite Witkoff to Brussels. However, the American envoy returned directly to the U.S., bypassing meetings with European officials—a move underscoring the fragmented approach to mediation.

The leaders also addressed the crucial, contentious issue of utilizing frozen Russian assets. Chancellor Merz insisted that decisions regarding resources immobilized under EU jurisdiction must remain under European competence and could not be ceded to non-European states. Simultaneously, the European Commission proposed a plan to use approximately €90 billion in seized Russian funds to finance Ukraine’s war efforts, a proposal immediately condemned by Moscow.

Debate also ensued over European involvement in future U.S.-led talks. Leaders discussed whether heads of state should attend any meeting with U.S. envoys. While Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was opposed, President Stubb advocated for participation, arguing Europe must be “in” the process rather than relegated to the sidelines. The urgency surrounding the leaked discussions highlights the imperative for Europe to assert a unified strategy and secure binding security guarantees for Kyiv as the diplomatic endgame approaches.

Hong Kong authorities and animal welfare organizations concluded a significant search operation late last week at Hong Fuk Court, recovering numerous pets following a severe fire. Spearheaded by the Disaster Victim Identification Unit (DVIU), the multi-day effort—prompted by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)—culminated in the miraculous finding of a cat nine days post-incident and the retrieval of dozens of other animals, confirming ongoing concerns about pets displaced by the disaster.

The extensive search, executed on December 4, mobilized 104 DVIU officers who meticulously combed 78 residential units within the affected building. This sweep was part of an escalating effort to locate and rescue surviving animals from the fire’s aftermath.

A “Miraculous” Reunion After Nine Days

One of the most heartening outcomes was the rescue of Siu Hak Jai, a black cat found alive and trapped nine days after the fire raged through the building. The SPCA immediately transported the survivor to its Wan Chai center for urgent veterinary care. Witnesses observed the cat, hungry but alert, eagerly consuming food—a positive sign given the prolonged entrapment.

The discovery quickly led to an emotional reunion that the SPCA described as a “miracle.” Veterinary records confirmed that Siu Hak Jai was the same cat adopted from the charity eight years prior. The grateful owner rushed to the center upon hearing the news, providing a hopeful human element amid the catastrophe. The cat remains under medical supervision as of press time, receiving treatment for its ordeal.

Coordinated Rescue Efforts Yield Dozens of Survivors

The large-scale intervention on December 4 significantly boosted the total number of animal recoveries. During this sweep, teams located two cats, four turtles, one lizard, and more than 80 ornamental fish.

This followed earlier, incremental successes. On the eighth day after the fire, officers had already managed to retrieve two cats, four turtles, one lizard, and an additional 80-plus fish scattered throughout the structure. The consistent deployment of resources underscores the commitment of both government agencies and the SPCA to animal welfare in disaster scenarios.

Tragic Findings Highlight Need for Preparedness

While the rescues brought much-needed relief, the operation also uncovered the grim reality of the disaster’s toll. The DVIU teams discovered the remains of a significant number of deceased animals, including six cats, four rabbits, seven turtles, two frogs, and numerous fish. All remains were respectfully transferred to the SPCA for proper handling and necessary procedures.

The SPCA emphasized its ongoing commitment to supporting residents displaced by the fire. The organization stated it will continue to coordinate with affected pet owners, providing essential information and updates regarding search-and-rescue progress.

Actionable Takeaways for Pet Owners:

• Microchip Pets: Ensure all identification details are current for rapid reunification during emergencies.
• Emergency Go-Bags: Prepare a kit for pets including food, medication, veterinary records, and carriers.
• Communicate Evacuation Plans: Clearly designate individuals responsible for pets in an evacuation scenario.

The extraordinary resilience of Siu Hak Jai and the tireless work of the DVIU and SPCA serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of companion animals during structural disasters and the extraordinary efforts required to safeguard them. The SPCA encourages anyone affected by the incident to maintain contact for updates on specialized support services.

Hong Kong’s ongoing efforts against substance abuse showed mixed results in the first three quarters of 2025, according to a recent review by the Action Committee Against Narcotics (ACAN). While overall reported drug abuser numbers saw a marginal 1% reduction, data from the Central Registry of Drug Abuse (CRDA) revealed a worrying increase in substance use among individuals under the age of 21, driven primarily by the illicit use of etomidate. This shift in demographic vulnerability coincides with a significant intensification of drug-related law enforcement activity across the territory.

Analyzing the Shifting Abuser Landscape

The CRDA figures indicate a slight year-on-year drop in total reported drug abusers, falling from 4,176 in the first three quarters of 2024 to 4,122 during the same period in 2025. Heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine remain the most widely abused substances among the general population.

However, the trend among young people reversed this improvement. The number of reported drug abusers under the age of 21 increased slightly from 600 to 604. Among this vulnerable group, the anesthetic drug etomidate emerged as the primary concern, accounting for 284 reported cases, followed by cannabis and cocaine.

Officials have repeatedly stressed the acute dangers associated with etomidate. Its use can quickly lead to dependency and cause severe health complications, including acute mental disturbances, skin ulcers, myoclonic jerks (sudden muscle spasms), and hormonal imbalances. Notably, in women and girls, chronic etomidate use can precipitate masculinizing effects such as facial hair growth and voice deepening.

Enforcement Intensifies Amid Record Arrests

In tandem with public health warnings, law enforcement has significantly stepped up its operations. Arrests for drug offenses skyrocketed by 26% during the nine-month period, totaling 3,012 compared to 2,386 the previous year.

The increase was even more pronounced among youth. Arrests involving individuals under 21 years old surged by 115%, climbing from 196 to 422. Etomidate, cannabis, and cocaine were the substances most frequently implicated in these youth arrests.

Hong Kong maintains stringent penalties for drug offenses. Etomidate and its analogues are designated as dangerous drugs under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (Cap. 134). Trafficking or manufacturing these substances can result in a maximum penalty of life imprisonment and a HK$5 million fine, while simple possession or consumption carries up to seven years’ imprisonment and a HK$1 million fine.

The judicial system showed a high commitment to prosecution, with an 83% conviction rate for drug-related cases concluded during this period. The severity of penalties reflects the city’s zero-tolerance policy: over half of convicted drug traffickers under 21 received prison sentences exceeding five years, with the longest sentence recorded at over two decades.

Public Outreach and Future Focus

The Narcotics Division (ND) of the Security Bureau continues to bolster its outreach, focusing specifically on preventing etomidate use among young people. Initiatives include leveraging online campaigns and partnering with athletes to advocate for drug-free lifestyles.

To aid enforcement efforts, police have established a multi-channel, 24-hour etomidate reporting hotline (6629 2966), accessible via phone, WhatsApp, and WeChat (eto-report).

As the winter holiday season approaches, the ND issued a serious caution to young travelers, warning them to remain vigilant against engaging in drug use at social gatherings, especially when traveling overseas. Critically, the division advised against being lured by offers of “free trips” or quick money schemes that involve transporting controlled substances, emphasizing that the maximum sentence for drug trafficking remains life imprisonment. ACAN stated it will closely monitor consumption trends in the final quarter of 2025 to refine its future anti-drug strategies.

The Committee on Home-School Co-operation (CHSC) announced the publication of the Secondary School Profiles 2025/2026 on December 5, revealing a significant net reduction in Form One classes across Hong Kong’s government and aided secondary education sectors for the upcoming academic year. This annual resource, designed to assist Primary Six parents in making informed secondary school choices, highlights shifting demographics and adjustments to class structures across the territory, with printed copies slated for distribution through primary schools.

The latest overview indicates that Hong Kong’s 385 subsidized secondary schools will implement a net reduction of 16 Form One classes for the 2025/26 intake. Factoring out schools undergoing cyclical adjustments under the Voluntary Optimisation of Class Structure Scheme, the effective demographic contraction results in a definitive loss of 10 Form One classes. The impact of these reductions is geographically concentrated in several districts, including Wong Tai Sin, Kwun Tong, Sai Kung, Tuen Mun, and the North District.

Class Rebalancing and Notable Reductions

Several institutions are participating in the cyclical balancing scheme, which aims to optimize resource allocation based on fluctuating student populations. Six schools are transitioning from five to four Form One classes, including prominent names like Munsang College (Hong Kong Island), Salesian English School (Eastern District), St. Mark’s School, and E.L.C.H.K. Lutheran Secondary School (Yau Tsim Mong). Conversely, Cheung Chuk Shan College in the Eastern District will increase its intake from four to five classes under the same optimization effort.

Further localized reductions are underway in the North District and certain outlying islands. Schools previously granted temporary expansion to five Form One classes due to exceptional circumstances are reverting to their original, smaller structures.

The data underscores growing enrollment pressures, particularly in multiple districts. Four schools across Kwun Tong, Tuen Mun, and Sai Kung are implementing cuts from three to just two Form One classes. This is a critical threshold, as current policy mandates that any secondary school maintaining just two Form One classes for two consecutive years forfeits its eligibility to be categorized as a three-class school in subsequent allocation exercises.

A particularly stark example of demographic challenges is Cheung Chau Government Secondary School, which had been previously flagged for potential closure. The school is slated to open with only a single Form One class for the 2025/2026 academic year.

Informing Parental Decisions

The publication of the Secondary School Profiles serves as a crucial resource, offering comprehensive, verified data sourced directly from over 400 local secondary schools. Each profile reflects the school’s position as of September 2025, detailing essential information for parents.

Key Information Included in the Profiles:

• School mission and vision
• Facilities and resources
• Detailed teacher data (qualifications, experience)
• Current class structures and subjects offered
• Student support services
• Learning and teaching plans

In his message introductory message, the CHSC chairman emphasized the resource’s role in promoting transparency, urging parents to utilize the data presented to match their children’s needs with appropriate learning environments. Schools retain the ability to update their digital entries throughout the academic cycle, ensuring parents have access to the most current information available as they navigate the critical secondary school selection process. This year’s class reductions signal ongoing demographic shifts that will continue to shape Hong Kong’s education landscape.