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The Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Tsang Tak-sing, today (September 12) presented commendation certificates to 41 volunteer leaders of youth uniformed groups (UGs) in recognition of their commitment in promoting youth training and development over the years.
Mr Tsang said at the certificate presentation ceremony, "The Government has been encouraging young people to foster a culture of multi-faceted excellence to realise their potential and creating favourable conditions for them to contribute to society. UGs help young people to better equip themselves and nurture our youngsters to fulfil their aspirations to serve the community. The Home Affairs Bureau will continue to work closely with UGs to promote youth development."
He said that UGs have been fostering youth development beyond school education. With the guidance and encouragement of volunteer leaders, UGs have organised various training and service programmes to enable young people to broaden their horizons and acquire new skills and knowledge. With various types of group training young people can also learn to get along with people, respect others and follow discipline, living a spirit of serving others and not expecting to be served.
Today, UGs are an important force among Hong Kong youth and make valuable contributions to the community. Many UG members have also become elites within society. These achievements bear testimony to the efforts and selfless service of volunteer leaders.
Mr Tsang also praised volunteer leaders for their enthusiasm in serving the community over the years. Their efforts not only help promote the development of their groups, but also nurture countless young people, instilling discipline and responsibility into our next generations.
He hoped the award recipients will pass on their spirit of perseverance and enthusiasm and encourage more people to join UGs as volunteer leaders so that more young people can benefit.
Set up in 2002, the Secretary for Home Affairs' Commendation Scheme aims at recognising the efforts and contributions of UG volunteer leaders in youth development. All the volunteer leaders commended in the ceremony have provided services in their respective uniformed groups for a long time. All of them have served in their groups for at least 10 years, and eight have served for 30 years or more.
Ends/Thursday, September 12, 2013
Issued at HKT 19:34
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