Don't just recklessly send off your children for education abroad, you could well be buying them a ticket to a journey that's anything but educational if not downright hazardous.
This timely advice from the Consumer Council was issued to remind parents and students the need for caution in planning for overseas education.
In previous years, complaints against private overseas education consultant agencies have been brought to the attention of the Council, which received 14 consumer complaints in 2002, and 20 in 2003. So far this year, there was only one (as complaints are likely to arise in the latter half o the year).
Consumers are strongly advised to find out and ascertain from the agency beforehand all possible relevant information about the school and the country as recommended by the agencies.
Do not be rushed into a decision to avoid later loss of money and time and, more importantly, delaying the education progress of the students.
In fact, if possible, parents and students can apply directly to the schools or universities of their choice. They can seek counselling from a host of non-profit-making educational consultancy services or the consulates of the countries concerned.
Further, the Careers Guidance and Home-School Co-operation Section under the Education and Manpower Bureau also operates a free information service to the public.
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