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The Central Policy Unit (CPU) announced today (October 16) the funding results of the third round of the Public Policy Research (PPR) Funding Scheme 2014-15.
The CPU had 10 research proposals in this round. The total funding sought was about $6 million. To ensure academic freedom and the quality of the research projects, assessments were conducted by an assessment panel comprising 16 experienced academics. Besides panel members, the CPU also invited reviewers who are academics and experts outside the panel to assess the applications. Each application was considered on its merits and contributions towards the making of public policies. A declaration of interests system is in place to ensure that the assessments are fair and just.
After the above assessment process, the CPU decided to fund, on the advice of the assessment panel, two projects with a total funding of about $600,000. Two other projects are being processed.
The funded projects cover policy areas such as poverty and inequality, and ethnic minorities. Details of the funded projects have been uploaded to the CPU's website (www.cpu.gov.hk).
Since the introduction of the PPR Funding Scheme in 2005, the Government has allocated $20 million annually for promoting public policy research. From 2013-14 onwards, the CPU is administering the day-to-day operation of the PPR Funding Scheme. The Scheme has been open for application since July 16, 2013. To increase the Scheme's flexibility and to cater for potential applicants' needs, applications are accepted throughout the year. Applications will be processed upon receipt.
Ends/Thursday, October 16, 2014
Issued at HKT 17:30
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