14 convicted of bribing ESF worker to obtain places at Hong Kong kindergarten
South China Morning Post
by Fiona ChowFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A Hong Kong court has convicted 13 parents and one merchant who bribed an administrator at the English Schools Foundation (ESF) to secure kindergarten placements for their children. The defendants offered bribes ranging from HK$20,000 to HK$200,000 (US$2,600 to US$25,600) to Fatima Rumjahn, a former ESF employee, in exchange for K1 placements at one of Hong Kong’s largest international school groups. Deputy District Judge Amy Chan Wai-mun emphasized that custodial sentences were the only appropriate punishment, underscoring the seriousness of the offenses.
The case highlights the lengths some parents went to ensure their children gained admission to prestigious kindergartens. The bribes were facilitated through intermediaries, with payments made directly to Rumjahn, who had access to internal systems and processes at the ESF. This breach of trust not only compromised the integrity of the admissions process but also raised concerns about the broader impact on Hong Kong’s educational institutions.
The convictions send a strong message about the consequences of bribery in Hong Kong’s education system. The case has drawn attention globally, as it reflects ongoing challenges in combating corruption, particularly within influential sectors like education. As legal systems worldwide continue to grapple with such issues, this verdict serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding anti-corruption measures and ensuring fair access to educational opportunities.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/24/2026