Youth Work Experience and Training Scheme

98.     In this time of high unemployment, the lack of jobs for young people aged between 15 and 24 is of particular concern to us.  When the economy is sluggish, as such people generally have little or no working experience, it is difficult for them to secure employment.

99.     To assist them to raise their employment prospects, I have decided to allocate a one-off sum of $400 million for the implementation of a two-year scheme to provide on-the-job training for about 10 000 young people.  Training periods will range from six to 12 months, depending on the needs of individual industries.  During this time, the trainees will acquire knowledge and skills relating to their chosen industry.  Upon completion of their training, they will receive a certificate which will enable them to continue their studies or find employment.  For the period of training, we will provide a monthly subsidy to employers who will be required to pay the trainees’ wages.  We will work out details of the programme with the relevant industries and training institutions.  I urge the business sector to participate actively in the scheme.