A study by the Polytechnic University has affirmed the effectiveness of the Youth Work Experience & Training Scheme, recommending the Government continue implementing it.

Permanent Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Matthew Cheung today said the Labour Department will study the findings and consider the recommendations.

The department commissioned the university to review the scheme. The university also conducted an 18-month study on 800 trainees.

The report said the scheme has adopted a set of "active labour market policies" and is in line with the standards promulgated by the International Labour Organisation.

Trainees made significant improvement in various aspects, such as preparation for work and employability, after joining the scheme for a year. The report said the job-training and career counselling service improved their job-seeking skills and attitudes.

More than 60% who completed on-the-job training were offered continued employment by their employers. This clearly demonstrated the effectiveness of the training opportunities in enhancing employability.

Social network widened

The study found the scheme could increase trainees' motivation in continuing to study and enhance their psychological qualities and self-esteem.

To tie in with the application of the second phase of joint recruitment and the Youth Pre-employment Training Programme, a bus parade will be staged to promote the two schemes and accept on-the-spot applications for enrolment.

Application forms can be downloaded from the department's website. Online application is available to applicants aged 18 or above. For enquiries call 2835 2282.