Career counsel: Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Stephen Ip tours the Education & Careers Expo.

Government youth training and work experience programmes have achieved good results in helping young people find jobs, Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Stephen Ip says.

Opening the Education & Careers Expo today, Mr Ip said it is important for young people to make a realistic assessment of their interests, talent, qualifications and expectations so they can choose the right career path. He called on them to equip themselves with the necessary knowledge and skills to achieve their goals.

"Despite steady improvement in the general employment scene, we must continue to equip our young people for the world of work," Mr Ip said. "Given the rapid development in technology, innovation and globalisation, young people should keep their eyes open and ears close to the ground. They must keep themselves abreast of the labour market situation.

"There are good employment opportunities in the financial, logistics and information technology services sectors. We will also see a further boost in job opportunities in the tourism, hotel, catering and retail trades."

To enhance the employability of young people, the Labour Department will form two Youth Employment Resource Centres later this year to provide one-stop advisory and support services on employment and self-employment to people aged 15 to 29.

The free expo features 498 exhibitors this year. It is open until February 4 at the Convention & Exhibition Centre.