In Protest-hit HK, Exams Top Students' Woes: Poll

Despite the political problems that have been engulfing Hong Kong, a recent poll has found the main worries among a majority of secondary school students in the city remain exams and academic grades.

A survey carried out by the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups has found 53.6 percent were worried about tests and exams while 51.9 percent their academic performance.

Complaints like having no time to rest, too much homework and a tough curriculum were the next three top worries pointed out by 2,700 students surveyed by the federation over the past two months.

The social unrest ignited by the now-withdrawn extradition bill was only in the sixth spot on their list of worries.

Students, including those from secondary schools, have been active in the movement and the pro-government camp have bemoaned this, saying youngsters are getting too politicised, and calling for changes in the 'radicalising' curriculum.

But the survey found only a quarter of secondary students it polled cited the agitation as a worry. About 10 percent said they’re concerned about potential conflicts with friends because of different political views.

The federation said from June to October, it received more than 600 calls from students on a counselling hotline it is operating.

Social worker Hsu Siu-man said many students felt depressed and helpless after keeping track of the protests on TV or social media.

She said in one case, a boy said he felt discriminated against at school because his father is a policeman.

"He can't talk to his peers because he is the son of a police officer. He is quite lonely and doesn't know who he can talk to," Hsu said. "He didn't know how to cope with this identity and that is why he called the hotline."

Hsu urged parents and teachers to be open-minded when talking to youngsters.