Strive and Rise eyes 4,000 more recruits

Wallis Wang and Stacy Shi

Another 4,000 students will be recruited into the SAR administration's Strive and Rise Program, with the third round of the initiative launching on Thursday, according to Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki.

This expansion will bring the total number of mentees in the program to over 10,000.

Chan said the government will also enhance mentor training in this round, with the aim of assisting underprivileged teenagers in broadening their horizons and striving for upward mobility.

At the premiere of a microfilm showcasing the program's achievements, he said results have been both fruitful and encouraging.

"Our assessment indicates the program has successfully fostered improvements in mentees' personal development and positive thinking," Chan said.

He cited enhancements across all eight indicators of students' self-assessments, including financial planning skills, self-confidence, interpersonal skills and a sense of social belonging - qualities essential for thriving in society.

Chan said feedback from mentees' parents and mentors, who have observed significant progress in various aspects of the students' lives, has been positive.

"With support from various sectors, I believe this program will help more young people broaden their horizons, unleash their potential and cultivate a positive outlook," he added.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said the administration has implemented nearly 80 measures of a blueprint aimed at supporting young people's development.

In his recent policy address, he revealed plans to establish a "Youth Post" hostel and cultural exchange spaces for youths at the Kai Tak Community Isolation Facility, along with an activity and performance platform at Nam Cheong District Community Centre.

"By providing diverse facilities and venues, we aim to promote interactions and enhance the potential of our youths," Lee said at the Hong Kong Scout Rally.

He reiterated a commitment to offering varied career paths for youths, fostering a new generation that is patriotic, ambitious and globally minded with professional skills.

He said the Scout Association, the largest youth uniformed group in Hong Kong with over 34,000 members, has helped deepen patriotism and global vision in youths through diverse training and activities.