Understanding 『智』啟學教｜Planning for the Next Funding Cycle
Up to HK$500,000 per school · One platform for Teach, Learn, Assess, Track
「『智』啟學教」 is the Hong Kong EDB funding programme supporting subsidised primary and secondary schools in adopting AI platforms, hardware, and school-based training. This page helps principals and AI coordinators understand the programme structure, KPI requirements, and how ESSAi can support the next application cycle. ESSAi is already deployed in 9 Hong Kong schools and is one of few local providers covering software, school-based customisation, and teacher development in a single solution.
The first application window closed on 28 February 2026. The next cycle is expected to open later in 2026. Now is the best time to prepare your application and align your internal stakeholders early.
How ESSAi Covers All Three Funding Categories
The programme covers software, hardware, and school-based solutions. ESSAi can be deployed in any combination.
① Software & Platform
One platform for every teacher at the school — not just the language and maths panels.
- ✓Core subjects: Chinese, English, Putonghua, Mathematics (essay grading, oral, reading, listening)
- ✓Self-study content: Humanities, Science, ICT (primary + secondary)
- ✓Cross-subject homework: any teacher (Music, PE, GS, Visual Arts) can assign a YouTube video — AI auto-generates and auto-marks comprehension MC questions
- ✓Teacher dashboard + student self-study + progress tracking
② Hardware Deployment (Optional)
Local LLM deployment for schools with strict data privacy needs.
- ✓Local LLM server (Mac Studio / Nvidia DGX)
- ✓Data never leaves school premises — fully private cloud
- ✓Can be mixed with ESSAi cloud deployment
- ✓Installation and maintenance by ESSAi team
③ School-Based Solutions
Customised to each school's curriculum and assessment standards.
- ✓Custom-trained rubrics matching school marking standards
- ✓Aligned with TSA, HKAT, DSE and school-based assessments
- ✓Teacher training and cross-school exchange activities
- ✓Two AI literacy workshops for students
How ESSAi Meets EDB KPI Requirements
The programme requires schools to cover "3 subjects × 2 levels × 6 resource types." ESSAi delivers all of this in one package.
Four Student AI Competencies
Aligned with the EDB AI literacy framework, ESSAi student workshops cover all four learner roles.
Why Schools Choose ESSAi
Prepare Early for the Next Funding Cycle
Even before the next window opens, it is not too early to plan. We can help you scope school-specific needs, draft the application framework, and prepare proposals and quotations. Book a free 30-minute on-site strategy session.