How to make good use of the One-off Grant for Promotion of Independent Language Learning (English and Putonghua)? A must-read guide for schools

With the launch of the "One-off Grant for Promoting Independent Language Learning (English and Mandarin)" by the Hong Kong Education Bureau in the 2024/25 academic year, each public sector and direct subsidy school will receive a total of HK$400,000 in funds (HK$200,000 each for English and Mandarin), providing a rare opportunity to improve students' language proficiency. The grant, supported by the Standing Committee on Language Education and Research (SCOLAR), aims to enable students to take greater initiative and achieve greater results in their English and Mandarin learning through a self-directed learning model. This article will provide schools with a practical guide to help you maximize the use of the "One-off Grant for Promoting Independent Language Learning (English and Putonghua)" to create an efficient language learning environment and indirectly enhance students' lifelong learning ability.

Why should we attach importance to this allowance?

The "One-off Grant for Promoting Independent Language Learning (English and Putonghua)" is not only a sum of money, but also an important step in Hong Kong's educational innovation. According to the 2024 Policy Address, the plan has a total value of HK$400 million and aims to enhance students' bilingual and trilingual skills so that they can stand out in the global competition. This is a great opportunity for schools to introduce innovative resources and activities to help students master English and Mandarin while developing independent learning habits. However, there are clear limits and deadlines for the use of grants, and if schools do not plan ahead, they may miss out on opportunities or even have to return unused funds. Therefore, it is crucial to make good use of this allowance.

Three major directions for using subsidies

Education BureauA flexible scope for the use of the One-off Grant for Promotion of Independent Language Learning (English and Putonghua) has been set up so that schools can formulate plans according to the needs of their students. Here are three practical directions and suggestions:

1. Procurement of innovative learning resources
   
   • suggestion: Invest in e-books, language learning apps, or smart tools such as reading pens and AI-based learning platforms. These resources allow students to learn anytime and anywhere, improving their English listening, speaking, reading and writing skills, or their Mandarin sense and pronunciation.
   • Example: An AI-driven English learning platform that provides personalized exercises based on students' levels and corrects pronunciation through voice recognition. Such tools not only meet the goal of independent learning, but can also be used in the long term.
   • Precautions: Make sure resources are directly related to language learning and avoid purchasing equipment with non-educational purposes.
2. Organize language activities and workshops
   
   • suggestion: Organize English drama competitions, Mandarin storytelling sessions or recitation activities, and hire professional tutors to lead students in practice. These activities can stimulate interest in learning and enhance language application ability.
   • Example: Organize an "English Drama Festival" to allow students to improve their oral expression by rehearsing scripts; or a "Mandarin Story Writing Competition" to encourage students to write and read stories independently.
   • Precautions: Activity award expenses should not exceed 10% of the total cost, and funds should focus on the learning process rather than rewards.
3. Develop school-based learning materials
   
   • suggestion：Commission experts or institutions to design English and Mandarin learning resources that are suitable for the school, such as school-based reading plans or interactive courses.
   • Example: Cooperate with technology education companies to develop AI-based school-based English courses and provide targeted exercises for students' weaknesses.
   • Precautions: Ensure that the materials are consistent with the course objectives and will benefit students in the long term.

Limitations and Key Points for Using Allowances

Although the One-off Grant for Promoting Independent Language Learning (English and Putonghua) provides flexibility, there are alsoClear Limits:

• Not available for: Recruitment of teaching staff, teacher training, and activities not related to language learning (such as banquets or school building decoration).
• Financial requirements: Schools must set up separate accounts for each allowance, keep records for seven years, and submit reports before September 30, 2027. Unused funds must be returned by August 31, 2027.
• Validity Period: The grant must be used up before the end of the 2026/27 academic year and can be extended until August 31, 2027.

To avoid wasting funds, schools should make plans as early as possible and attend the briefing session to be held by the Education Bureau in January 2025 (seeTraining Calendar), understand best practices and compliance requirements.

How to maximize the benefits of subsidies?

1. Assessing student needs
   
   • Before implementation, questionnaires or tests can be used to understand students' weak points in English and Mandarin learning, such as oral expression or reading comprehension, so that the allowance can be used in a targeted manner.
2. Combining technology and education
   
   • Modern students are familiar with digital tools, and the introduction of AI technology (such as voice analysis or personalized learning systems) can significantly improve learning efficiency. For example, grammar and pronunciation correction in English learning can provide instant feedback through the intelligent platform.
3. Long-term planning
   
   • Choose sustainable resources or activities to avoid one-time expenditures. For example, purchasing a learning platform on a subscription basis is more cost-effective than a one-off event.

LinguaSmart: The best way to make good use of language learning subsidies