The unemployment rate for youths aged 15 to 19 is falling thanks to recent improvements in the overall employment situation.

Speaking at the launch of the Youth Pre-employment Training Programme's Workplace Attachment Training scheme, Permanent Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Matthew Cheung said the unemployment rate of this age group fell from an all-time high of 36.1% (26,400 jobless) in the third quarter to 32.5% (22,700 jobless) from August to October.

He said the number of unemployed has dropped by 3,700.

"The unemployment rate of youngsters aged between 15 and 19 remains high and therefore, the Government will continue to enhance the employability of youngsters of this age group through the programme," Mr Cheung said.

The programme's capacity has been increased from 12,000 to 18,000 this year and more courses have been added. The application period has also been extended to ensure no one is turned away.

Mr Cheung said young people should be attentive to their work and provide the best service. They should be brave in seeking assistance from colleagues or superiors when in difficulty, and should be willing to learn, and be meticulous and conscientious at work.

The programme was launched in 1999 to provide pre-employment training, workplace attachment, career advice and support services to participants.

More than 45,000 have received training in the past four years. Apart from those who decided to pursue further studies, nearly 70% of the remainder secured employment.

The programme this year began in September. So far, more than 6,000 trainees have completed the mandatory job search and interpersonal skills training.