The Hong Kong government and business sector are to jointly launch a youth employment and internship programme offering 30,000 places over the next two years, Chief Executive John Lee said on Monday.
Lee announced the plan in a video message to the Global Youth Powerhouse Summit 2026, presenting youth development as a central part of Hong Kong’s first five-year plan and the Policy Address announced last month. He said young people would both benefit from the city’s reforms and help drive them.
The address also pointed to opportunities beyond the 30,000-place programme. Lee said Hong Kong would expand mainland internships and training in finance, aerospace and cutting-edge research, while a new United Nations Youth Leaders Internship Programme would offer placements at United Nations agencies.
Separately, Lee highlighted the Northern Metropolis as a major area for the city’s future development. Three proposed university towns in San Tin, Hung Shui Kiu and Ta Kwu Ling would, he said, bring together education, technology, industry and talent development.
The summit was organised by Hong Kong Youth Professional Global Advocacy and examined subjects including artificial intelligence, geopolitics, education hubs, capital markets, life and health technology and start-up finance. HK01 reported that more than 600 young professionals, political and business leaders and corporate representatives took part online from more than 60 countries and regions this year.