Policy Address

Youth Development

Temporary Work Opportunities for Young People

139.     While overall employment in Hong Kong has improved recently, the unemployment rate among young people remains high.  We have decided to extend to March 2012 the 3 000 temporary work opportunities created for young people aged between 15 and 29 to gain work experience.

Mainland Volunteer Service under the Service Corps Programme

140.     Many of us were moved by the selfless act of Hong Kong volunteer Mr Wong Fuk-wing, who sacrificed his life to save others during the earthquake in Yushu, Qinghai.  Many Hong Kong people are passionate about voluntary work and render volunteer service in both Hong Kong and the Mainland.  The Government plans to form a “Service Corps” in the coming year to recruit and provide financial support for senior secondary school leavers, tertiary students and working youths aged between 18 and 29 to serve in underprivileged areas in the Mainland for 6 to 12 months by providing training on, for example, education, hygiene and environmental protection.

The Auxiliary Medical Service Cadet Corps

141.     The Auxiliary Medical Service (AMS) will set up a cadet corps next year aiming to recruit 1 000 members in five years. The AMS cadet corps will encourage young people aged between 12 and 17 to develop practical skills and leadership through group activities and training, and help them build self-confidence, a sense of responsibility, self-discipline and the spirit to serve.

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