Do more in Phase 2C to make P1 registration a fairer process

It is disheartening that some schools have already been oversubscribed in Primary One registration (“13 schools oversubscribed after first day of P1 registration under Phase 2B”, July 20, Channel NewsAsia; “6 schools oversubscribed at the end of Phase 2A (2) P1 registration”, July 15, CNA).

The Education Ministry has committed at least 40 places under Phases 2B and 2C to non-affiliated applicants in each school. But can we not do more in Phase 2C for these parents, who must fight for the limited places with others who did not secure a spot earlier but have a second chance?

Many parents have volunteered in schools or signed up with the school alumni for a common reason: Priority in securing a place for their children. Are we not cultivating a “kiasu” mentality? If we want to continue with the balloting and priorities system, it should be a fair process.