Secretary for the Civil Service Joshua Law today met post-secondary students with disabilities who are taking part in a government summer internship scheme.

Launched by the Civil Service Bureau in 2016, the internship scheme for disabled students strengthens their competitiveness before they enter the workforce.

About 250 students have taken part in the scheme since it began.

“I am pleased to note that some alumni of the scheme have been offered employment by private enterprises or government departments of their choice upon graduation,” Mr Law said.

“The scheme also enables civil service colleagues to appreciate the talents and potential of these students.”

Mr Law said the scheme provides training for the interns to enhance their understanding of the operation and work of government departments.

“Each intern has a mentor. The mentor, who is an experienced colleague, assists students to adapt to the work environment and cope with work challenges."

Scheme mentors applauded the interns' proactive working attitude and said the disabled are equally competent in the workplace.

More than 60 post-secondary students with disabilities were assigned to about 40 government bureaus and departments this summer for an eight-week internship.

Their duties include editing departmental publications, event management, graphic design and production, developing teaching aids and providing support for enquiry counters.