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The Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Tsang Tak-sing, said the HKSAR Government attached great importance to youth development. With the phased opening of various facilities at the Youth Square, it is hoped that the efforts of different youth groups can be unified to promote youth development in Hong Kong on a variety of fronts.
Mr Tsang visited the Youth Square today (February 10) to learn about the Chinese New Year booths being staged at the venue.
Mr Tsang said youth development was a major policy responsibility of the Home Affairs Bureau (HAB). Related works include promoting positive values among young people, encouraging participation in the community and strengthening leadership skills.
With an aim to promote youth activities through the provision of facilities, he said the Youth Square was a key investment of the HKSAR Government to foster youth development. The HAB will continue to organise various activities to strengthen Youth Square's position as a focal point for young people.
The "Good Year! CNY Market", organised by the Youth Square, provides opportunities for the youngsters to start their own business. The fair is being held at Y-Platform of the square until the Lunar New Year's Eve on February 13. Admission is free. Visitors can shop for a range of festive products and handmade accessories produced by youngsters at more than 20 stalls and redeem lucky bags at the fair. On February 12 afternoon, while clown and magic shows, and arts and crafts workshops will be staged, the "God of Fortune" will also greet visitors at the market.
Located at 238 Chai Wan Road, the Youth Square comprises a main block and a hostel block, with a total gross floor area of about 40,000 square metres. Key facilities comprise a theatre, platform, studio, multi-purpose areas, retail shops, function rooms, resource centre, offices and hostel guest rooms.
Since the phased opening in last August till the end of last year, the Youth Square has received more than 200 organisations and organised more than 50 activities. A number of events will also be launched after the Lunar New Year, including "Our Community - Go Went Gone" Photo Contest, "World Dance Day 2010 - Dance Fun Day @ Youth Square" and "Hong Kong Smart Teens Anti-drug Rap and Karaoke Songwriting Contest".
Ends/Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Issued at HKT 19:50
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