BACKGROUND The school was founded in 1973. DESCRIPTION It is a co-educational secondary school with 1,084 students. The staff comprises 50 full-time teachers and 18 auxiliary staff. HEADMASTER The principal is Mr Eddie Lei Kwok-kit who holds a B. A. degree and a THIS year is a milestone for Hoi Ping Chamber of Commerce Secondary School - it enters its 20th year and seems well poised for the future.

Its principal, Mr Eddie Lei Kwok-kit, has been with the school since its opening, initially as a teacher and then as its head two years ago.

Mr Lei witnessed the school's growth from its original 370 students in nine classes to over 1,000 in 29 classes today.

Since 1981, three students have scored eight As in the HKCEE.

The school has adapted to the changing needs of Hongkong by introducing Computer Studies, Civic Education and Putonghua in the last five years.

Its administrative policy has also switched from an emphasis on discipline to the fostering of a spirit of liberalism.

''We are building up a new generation that can meet the momentous challenges posed by the change of sovereignty of Hongkong in 1997,'' Mr Lei said.

''We want our students to understand what liberalism is and to help them develop independent thinking.'' Students are encouraged to participate in student union affairs and to elect the working committee themselves.

Social awareness among students is likewise given primary importance.

The school's Social Service Group took part in Project HOPE (Health Opportunity for People Everywhere) this academic year and raised $24,000 to provide medical help for dying children in China.

In addition, the active participation of over 100 students in selling flags for charities last year had earned the school a special award.

Special events were planned for the 20th anniversary commemoration.

The celebration programmes were kicked off with a Teachers and Students Activities Day. Teachers demonstrated their cooking skills by making pancakes, sushi and Chinese tea for the students.

A photo exhibition of the old and new faces of Hoi Ping was also staged at the same time.

Other activities included a reunion buffet dinner for alumni.

The climax of the celebration will be a variety show featuring singing, dancing and drama to be staged at Sha Tin Town Hall in July.

Looking ahead, Mr Lei said he hoped to help students develop analytical thinking.

''This is essential because a good democratic government needs responsible citizens capable of sound judgement.'' Mr Lei will also stress the learning of English as it is the primary language of international communication essential for the survival of Hongkong as an international port.