Hong Kong qualifications framework: A catalyst to lifelong learning?

In response to the fierce competition resulting from globalization and the knowledge-based economy, the Hong Kong government launched massive education reform in 2000 as the central strategy to improve manpower quality. The ultimate goal of this reform was to facilitate lifelong learning for all. This education reform set a foundation for the establishment of its companion structure, Qualifications Framework (QF), which was launched on May 5, 2008. The QF is expected to be a 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 1) to examine the viability of the QF as a catalyst for lifelong learning and 2) to examine the current policies governing the RPL mechanism and SCS-based programs of the QF. Issues arising from the current policies and implications on policies and practices of the quality branding of QFs are central to the analyses and discussions. Copyright © 2010 Pennsylvania Association for Adult Continuing Education (PAACE). The journal web site is located at http://www.iup.edu/ace/publications/default.aspx