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The Secretary for Education and Manpower, Professor Arthur KC Li, today (October 4) appealed to the business sector for their continued support for the School-Business Partnership Programme to help nurture Hong Kong's younger generation.
Professor Li made the remarks before joining the Governor of Rotary International District 3450, Mr Tony Wong, to witness the signing of the agreement for the Rotary-school Partnership "Adopt-A-School" Programme.
This initiative is a vital part of the School-Business Partnership Programme. By organising interesting and eye-opening activities jointly with schools, the business sector can help the latter extend teaching and learning beyond the classroom.
Professor Li said, "Schools are no longer the only source of information and inspiration for our students in this fast-changing world. People from all walks of life have a part to play in educating our youngsters.
"Being one of the world's biggest voluntary organisations and armed with professionals ranging from CEOs, accountants, doctors to educators, the Rotary Club is in a good position to help our schools organise learning activities and to offer expert advice on event organising, and finance and human resources management.
"I believe our students will benefit greatly from the learning opportunities to be offered under the 'Adopt-A-School' programme. A good combination of knowledge gained in the classroom and experience of the outside world will contribute a lot to their studies, communication skills and self-confidence," he said.
Under the programme, the Rotary Clubs in various districts will each, starting from the current school year, form a close partnership with one of the nine participating secondary and primary schools to provide a wide variety of activities for students, teachers and parents. These include seminars on finance and stress management, work-shadowing as well as visits to participating enterprises.
Mr Tony Wong said, "Over the years, Rotary International District 3450 has been an ardent supporter of youth development by setting up designated programmes for students aged 14 to 18 and also for young people aged 18 to 30.
"This 'Adopt-A-School' programme signifies a long-term alliance between the Rotary Club and the EMB in taking forward youth development work. In doing so, we are also living up to our pledge to serve the community as summarised in our theme of the year - Lead the Way."
Today's agreement signing ceremony was held at the Hong Kong Central Library and attended by about 150 guests including the former governor of Rotary International District 3450, Mr Peter Wan, as well as representatives from the Rotary Clubs in various districts, together with school heads, teachers and students.
Launched in 2005/06, the School-Business Partnership Programme is supported by over 130 enterprises and has seen as many as 15,000 students participate in about 250 activities so far.
Ends/Wednesday, October 4, 2006
Issued at HKT 18:54
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