Meeting with secondary students at Fanling Lodge

Over the past few years, I have been advocating co-operation between generations to build a better future for Hong Kong.

Last Saturday afternoon, I and my wife Regina met with students from Yuen Long and Tin Shui Wai at Fanling Lodge. There were 35 of them, from Form 1 to Form 6 levels and each from a secondary school in the districts. They were led by the Chairman of the Yuen Long District Secondary School Heads Association, Mrs Yeung Ng Wai-chung; the association's Deputy Chairman, Mr Yeung Hok-hoi; and a teacher, Mr Lai Chi-hang.

The 40 of us formed a circle, sitting on the lawn chatting, while enjoying some light refreshments. The young ones were happy to share their views on a number of topics like study pressure, the Native-speaking English Teacher Scheme, overseas exchange opportunities, career prospects, the country and Hong Kong, our relations with the Mainland, and more. I was impressed by their observations and insights.

I have always believed Hong Kong has a promising young generation, and that our society must give them more encouragement and the opportunities they deserve.

Five years ago, I initiated a professional firm internship programme for Form 5 students in Yuen Long District through the Hong Kong Coalition of Professional Services. With the co-ordination of the Yuen Long District Secondary School Heads Association, we have successfully arranged internships for around 200 students each summer. One of the interns said during a sharing session after his internship, "I was an intern with a barrister for two weeks. My best reward there was realising that he (the barrister) and I are both ordinary people. If I am willing to work hard, I can achieve as much as he can."

That's right. Our young people can achieve as much as they can if they are willing to work hard. Please offer your encouragement and give them the opportunities they deserve.

November 19, 2012