The principal of a small school facing closure said on Wednesday that the news was sad but expected, and he promised to manage the transition with the students’ best interests in mind. The government earlier announced that 15 primary schools would not be able to start a primary one class next year as they had not enrolled at least 16 pupils. One of these schools is Fresh Fish Traders' School in Tai Kok Tsui. The school is known for helping children from low‑income families, and welcoming students of many different cultures. Principal Sze Chi-king said he feels it is just a matter of time before the school has to close amid a declining population, especially in Yau Tsim Mong District. "Our school building was constructed in 1969. It’s old-fashioned and we don’t even have a playground... With our simple school facilities and falling birth rates, it’s difficult to compete," he said. The Education Bureau has said that under-enrolled schools are allowed to merge. Sze said he would consider the different options offered by the government and ensure that students are well looked after during any changes. One parent said she hopes the school can stay open. "This is a school that fits the community well. It serves many working‑class families and accepts children from different cultures," she said. Edited by Thomas McAlinden