Hong Kong qualifications framework: A catalyst for lifelong learning?

In response to the fierce competition resulting from the globalization of knowledge-based economy, the Hong Kong Government launched the massive education reform in 2000 as the central strategy to improve manpower quality. The ultimate goal of the education reform is to facilitate lifelong learning for all. This education reform sets a foundation for the establishment of its companion structure: Qualifications Framework (QF) which was launched on 5 May 2008. The QF is expected to be the catalyst for lifelong learning through its two mechanisms: Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and training programs based on Specification of Competency Standards (SCS). The purposes of this paper are to examine the probability of the QF a catalyst to lifelong learning based on the scrutiny of the decision making process of the government and the current policies governing the RPL mechanism and SCS-based programs of the QF. Issues arising from the current policies and implications for the higher education sector with respect to its admission requirements and procedures, curriculum design and student support re central to analyses and discussions.