補習–
Campus opening up to young talents
補習
Janson Ng Hoi-hei and Victor Lam Ho-tat will be in good company as the university plans to open its special dual program admission – previously limited to invited schools – to all secondary schools from September.
Ng, 14, studied at the National University of Singapore High School of Mathematics and Science.
“My parents encouraged me but I won’t spend seven hours a day on maths,” he said. “I have to learn about astronomy and engineering as well.”
Ng has won many awards in mathematics since 2008. In 2010, he joined HKUST’s Enrichment Program for Science Talents.
Lam, 16, who has a strong interest in physics, joined HKUST’s physics olympics training system and has been awarded top prizes at international contests since 2008.
“My parents let me do physics exercises and bought me books to read,” he said.
Both got along well with more senior classmates and managed to achieve high averages, though Ng and Lam admitted they were initially deserted by classmates after being labeled “talented.”
“I don’t think I have talent in mathematics,” Ng said. “I am just more hardworking and passionate. I don’t believe in talent.” Lam added: “And we haven’t taken IQ tests.”
Ng is determined to become a mathematics professor, while Lam wants to be a theoretical physicist so they can pass on their passions to the next generation.
HKUST’s dual program started in 2010 and has since admitted about 720 students.
The program provides learning opportunities for talented students in four criteria – biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics – and helps them explore the elementary courses in the university.
The four-stage program starts with a preparatory course tailored for junior secondary students. This course and Stage 1 will begin in November, with fees ranging from HK$4,500 to HK$6,000.
Center for the Development of the Gifted and Talented director Ng Tai-ki said subsidies will be given to underprivileged students.
“What is more important is for parents not to let their children focus on their talent, but to encourage balanced development,” Ng said.