Foundation laid for new 'golden building period'

The government is trying to roll out more post-secondary education places to train construction talents to solve the industry's manpower crunch in the future, Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho said.

Linn said higher diploma places for technical construction workers are expected to be increased by 30 percent.

The Development Bureau will also roll out subsidies for those who are working in the industry while also reading for a bachelor's degree part-time.

"Hong Kong's future infrastructure projects will lead to another golden period for the construction industry," Linn said.

To meet demand for construction talents, the bureau will enhance the training scheme and the Importation of Labour Scheme, as well as provide more subsidies for innovative technology.

Promotions would be conducted more frequently to inform the younger generation of the industry's potential.

To meet the professional requirements in the industry, the bureau would work with tertiary institutions and vocational training organizations to provide more higher diploma degree places.

In terms of financial incentives, the bureau implemented a two-year pilot program with HK$100 million in job allowances for construction part-time degree holders.

"A HK$100 million budget was allocated to the Construction Industry Council last year to enhance the number of training positions for skilled workers," Linn added.

In the 2022-23 academic year, a total of 14,000 students were enrolled, which surpassed their expected intake goal.

"The construction industry is the main pillar in booting up the city's economic and social development," said Susanne Wong Ho Wing-sze, principal assistant secretary (works).

With coming construction projects such as the Northern Metropolis and Kau Yi Chau artificial islands ready to kick off, Wong said she believes in the future development of the industry.

She hoped the younger generation would have a sense of commitment to create a better future for Hong Kong and join the industry.