Volume 21, Issue No. 2 (Serial No. 42) The Greater Bay Area Initiative and its Opportunities
Feature : The Greater Bay Area Initiative and its Opportunities
Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area – Opportunities and Challenges for Hong Kong - Patrick T.K. NIP
Patrick T.K. NIP
Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
【Abstract】The development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area is a key development strategy for the country’s reform and opening up in a new era. The Greater Bay Area comprises the two Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macao, as well as nine municipalities in Guangdong, encompassing one country, two systems, three customs territories, and three currencies. This article will introduce the background of the Greater Bay Area’s development and discuss its advantages compared to other bay areas in the world. It will also explore the role of Hong Kong in the Greater Bay Area, and the opportunities and challenges for Hong Kong brought about by this national initiative, especially in relation to our young people.
Keywords: Reform and Opening up; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area; “One Country, Two Systems”; Youth Development
Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
【Abstract】The development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area is a key development strategy for the country’s reform and opening up in a new era. The Greater Bay Area comprises the two Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macao, as well as nine municipalities in Guangdong, encompassing one country, two systems, three customs territories, and three currencies. This article will introduce the background of the Greater Bay Area’s development and discuss its advantages compared to other bay areas in the world. It will also explore the role of Hong Kong in the Greater Bay Area, and the opportunities and challenges for Hong Kong brought about by this national initiative, especially in relation to our young people.
Keywords: Reform and Opening up; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area; “One Country, Two Systems”; Youth Development
The Strategic Value of the Greater Bay Area at the National Level - Ping WONG
Ping WONG
Chairman, Hong Kong Association of China Business
【Abstract】The strategic value of the Greater Bay Area is far more significant than the former regional economic development plan in southern China. It has to be looked at on a national level and from the perspective of international economic relations. Young people in Hong Kong need to recognize its critical value, as well as the unique opportunities and challenges which it presents. Considering different key factors affecting career development in the Greater Bay Area young people could then maximize their opportunities to successfully develop their careers.
Keywords: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area; Greater Bay Area; National Strategy; Regional Economic Development; Strategic Planning
Chairman, Hong Kong Association of China Business
【Abstract】The strategic value of the Greater Bay Area is far more significant than the former regional economic development plan in southern China. It has to be looked at on a national level and from the perspective of international economic relations. Young people in Hong Kong need to recognize its critical value, as well as the unique opportunities and challenges which it presents. Considering different key factors affecting career development in the Greater Bay Area young people could then maximize their opportunities to successfully develop their careers.
Keywords: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area; Greater Bay Area; National Strategy; Regional Economic Development; Strategic Planning
Why do Hong Kong entrepreneurs fail to land on their feet in the Greater Bay Area? - Rocky YU
Rocky YU
Founder, Qianhai Gangjunda Shenzhen Commercial Services Co Ltd
【Abstract】The purpose of this article is to identify the factors of Hong Kong entrepreneurs’ complaint about the difficulty of setting up and running business in China. It points out the barriers of dialects, the legal system, the tax system, the social environment, and the execution of policy. Also, the rapid change in internet usage as and team work may pose problems for traditional businessmen from Hong Kong. Finally, some suggestions are provided for those eager to start and run a business in the Greater Bay Area.
Keywords: Greater Bay Area; Hong Kong Entrepreneurs; Cultural Difference; E-commerce
Founder, Qianhai Gangjunda Shenzhen Commercial Services Co Ltd
【Abstract】The purpose of this article is to identify the factors of Hong Kong entrepreneurs’ complaint about the difficulty of setting up and running business in China. It points out the barriers of dialects, the legal system, the tax system, the social environment, and the execution of policy. Also, the rapid change in internet usage as and team work may pose problems for traditional businessmen from Hong Kong. Finally, some suggestions are provided for those eager to start and run a business in the Greater Bay Area.
Keywords: Greater Bay Area; Hong Kong Entrepreneurs; Cultural Difference; E-commerce
The Career Development of Hong Kong’s Youth on the Mainland: Conceptions, Considerations, and Related Policies - Anthony FUNG Lok Yi LEUNG
Anthony Y.H. FUNG
Co-Director, Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Professor, School of Arts & Communication, Beijing Normal University
Wendy L.Y. LEUNG
Research Coordinator, Centre for Youth Studies, Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
【Abstract】In line with the increasing integration between the Mainland and Hong Kong, both economically and socially, the Chinese Government has facilitated the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong- Macao Greater Bay Area, whilst the HKSAR Government has implemented various measures to encourage Hong Kong youths to explore, study, and work on the Mainland, and to take advantage of “China Opportunities”. This article will explore the opportunities and challenges that these developments present for Hong Kong young people who would like to develop their careers on the Mainland, evaluating the macro-environment, the preferences of young people, and relevant government policies.
Keywords: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area; Hong Kong Youth; Youth Development; Youth Policies; China Opportunities
Co-Director, Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Professor, School of Arts & Communication, Beijing Normal University
Wendy L.Y. LEUNG
Research Coordinator, Centre for Youth Studies, Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
【Abstract】In line with the increasing integration between the Mainland and Hong Kong, both economically and socially, the Chinese Government has facilitated the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong- Macao Greater Bay Area, whilst the HKSAR Government has implemented various measures to encourage Hong Kong youths to explore, study, and work on the Mainland, and to take advantage of “China Opportunities”. This article will explore the opportunities and challenges that these developments present for Hong Kong young people who would like to develop their careers on the Mainland, evaluating the macro-environment, the preferences of young people, and relevant government policies.
Keywords: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area; Hong Kong Youth; Youth Development; Youth Policies; China Opportunities
The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area - Opportunity and Challenge for Entrepreneurship among Hong Kong Young People - Raymond CHU Keith CHAU
Raymond CHU
Assistant Director, Institute for Entrepreneurship, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Keith CHAU
Programme Director, Institute for Entrepreneurship, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
【Abstract】The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area is an important national economic development engine driven by innovation and technology. Under the “9+2” city arrangement of the Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong plays a very important role in connecting the region with the wider international arena and promoting regional economic development through innovative technology and entrepreneurship.
The Greater Bay Area initiative undoubtedly presents great opportunities for the future development of Hong Kong as a whole. However, there are also substantial differences in business practices, the economic environment, and related laws and regulations between China and Hong Kong. This article examines the ways in which Hong Kong young people can acquire a better understanding of local business culture and of the economic environment when preparing to start their businesses in the Greater Bay Area.
Keywords: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area; Hong Kong Young People; Entrepreneurship
Assistant Director, Institute for Entrepreneurship, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Keith CHAU
Programme Director, Institute for Entrepreneurship, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
【Abstract】The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area is an important national economic development engine driven by innovation and technology. Under the “9+2” city arrangement of the Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong plays a very important role in connecting the region with the wider international arena and promoting regional economic development through innovative technology and entrepreneurship.
The Greater Bay Area initiative undoubtedly presents great opportunities for the future development of Hong Kong as a whole. However, there are also substantial differences in business practices, the economic environment, and related laws and regulations between China and Hong Kong. This article examines the ways in which Hong Kong young people can acquire a better understanding of local business culture and of the economic environment when preparing to start their businesses in the Greater Bay Area.
Keywords: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area; Hong Kong Young People; Entrepreneurship
The Career Opportunities and Challenges of Hong Kong’s Young People in the Greater Bay Area - Keith W. K. LEUNG Feng Jie DU Amy S. M. YUEN
Keith W. K. LEUNG
Deputy Convenor, Employment & Economic Development Sub-Group, Youth I.D.E.A.S., The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
William F.J. DU
Member, Employment & Economic Development Sub-Group, Youth I.D.E.A.S., The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
Amy S. M. YUEN
Development Officer, Youth Research Centre, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
【Abstract】This study conducted by the Youth I.D.E.A.S. of the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups shows that there are four main barriers to Hong Kong young people developing their areers in the Greater Bay Area (GBA): a lack of coordination in the ommercial system and in policy for setting up businesses; omplex commercial procedures and unclear information; inaccessibility of electronic payment services and public services; and unfavorable development opportunities for non-tech entrepreneurs and non-professional employees. The study recommends that a Greater Bay Area Coordination Bureau be set up under the leading group for the development of the GBA to take charge of coordination amongst the 9+2 cities and to simplify different kinds of business procedures. It also recommends the provision of a one-stop information platform to make practical information available on business and employment within the GBA.
Keywords: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area; Hong Kong youth: entrepreneurship; employment; Guangdong province
Deputy Convenor, Employment & Economic Development Sub-Group, Youth I.D.E.A.S., The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
William F.J. DU
Member, Employment & Economic Development Sub-Group, Youth I.D.E.A.S., The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
Amy S. M. YUEN
Development Officer, Youth Research Centre, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
【Abstract】This study conducted by the Youth I.D.E.A.S. of the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups shows that there are four main barriers to Hong Kong young people developing their areers in the Greater Bay Area (GBA): a lack of coordination in the ommercial system and in policy for setting up businesses; omplex commercial procedures and unclear information; inaccessibility of electronic payment services and public services; and unfavorable development opportunities for non-tech entrepreneurs and non-professional employees. The study recommends that a Greater Bay Area Coordination Bureau be set up under the leading group for the development of the GBA to take charge of coordination amongst the 9+2 cities and to simplify different kinds of business procedures. It also recommends the provision of a one-stop information platform to make practical information available on business and employment within the GBA.
Keywords: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area; Hong Kong youth: entrepreneurship; employment; Guangdong province
Pan-Chinese Societies Exchange : Smart City: Development and Challenges
Smart City Development in Hong Kong - Victor Lam
Victor Lam
Government Chief Information Officer
【Abstract】In recent years, leading cities around the world have been striving to develop smart cities. Each city sets its goals and measures on smart city development having regard to its own circumstances, background and priorities. Hong Kong has been maintaining its leading position globally in terms of economic performance and digital competitiveness. With the staunch national support for I&T development, its fast-growing start-up ecosystem and fervid I&T atmosphere gradually created, Hong Kong is well-positioned to pursue smart city development. The Government published the “Smart City Blueprint for Hong Kong” in December 2017. The development plans cover six major areas with more than 70 initiatives so as to drive the smart city development in Hong Kong.
Keywords: Smart City; Innovation and Technology; Blueprint, Electronic Identity; Smart Lamppost
Government Chief Information Officer
【Abstract】In recent years, leading cities around the world have been striving to develop smart cities. Each city sets its goals and measures on smart city development having regard to its own circumstances, background and priorities. Hong Kong has been maintaining its leading position globally in terms of economic performance and digital competitiveness. With the staunch national support for I&T development, its fast-growing start-up ecosystem and fervid I&T atmosphere gradually created, Hong Kong is well-positioned to pursue smart city development. The Government published the “Smart City Blueprint for Hong Kong” in December 2017. The development plans cover six major areas with more than 70 initiatives so as to drive the smart city development in Hong Kong.
Keywords: Smart City; Innovation and Technology; Blueprint, Electronic Identity; Smart Lamppost
Multifunction & Balance: A Strategic Study on Macau Smart City Development - Jing YANG Yong Hua SONG
Jing YANG
Functional Head, State Key Laboratory of Internet of Things for Smart City, University of Macau
Yong Hua SONG
Director , State Key Laboratory of Internet of Things for Smart City, University of Macau
【Abstract】Based on a comprehensive survey on smart city definitions across the world and a series of public consultations, we first provide a definition of “Smart Macao.” Then we address the basic principles, development goals and strategies, and the main themes of Smart Macao. Next, we identify the potential bottlenecks in developing Smart Macao by inspecting Macao’s current situation. Finally, we argue that the building of Smart Macao must follow the laws of urban development, gather the insights of the public, grasp the opportunity of Greater Bay Area construction, and provide opportunities for young talents.
Keywords: Development Strategy; Infrastructure Construction; Talent Cultivation
Functional Head, State Key Laboratory of Internet of Things for Smart City, University of Macau
Yong Hua SONG
Director , State Key Laboratory of Internet of Things for Smart City, University of Macau
【Abstract】Based on a comprehensive survey on smart city definitions across the world and a series of public consultations, we first provide a definition of “Smart Macao.” Then we address the basic principles, development goals and strategies, and the main themes of Smart Macao. Next, we identify the potential bottlenecks in developing Smart Macao by inspecting Macao’s current situation. Finally, we argue that the building of Smart Macao must follow the laws of urban development, gather the insights of the public, grasp the opportunity of Greater Bay Area construction, and provide opportunities for young talents.
Keywords: Development Strategy; Infrastructure Construction; Talent Cultivation
Smart City Development and Challenges – Enlightenment from Taiwan’s Experience - James CHIAO
James CHIAO
Chairman & CEO of Smart Cities Consulting Technology CO. Inc.
【Abstract】Cities continue to serve as shining beacons of hope and opportunity, and people in every corner of the world flock to them to experience a higher standard of living, start families, and found businesses, in a migration trend known as urbanization. This trend has made of cities intellectual hubs and cultural and financial centers. But cities also have congestion, pollution, and public safety issues. Continued globalization and urbanization have tested the limits of the city’s health, power, safety, and transport infrastructures. With globalization came rapid change in technology, trade liberalization, and in the relationship between production, sales, and consumption. Cities must become smarter to be able to compete globally. Building smart cities with local characteristics is an important factor in cities’ ability to secure a place in the competition of globalization.
Keywords: Smart city; Internet of Things (IoT); Internet of Everything (IoE); Information and Communication Technology (ICT); digitalization
Chairman & CEO of Smart Cities Consulting Technology CO. Inc.
【Abstract】Cities continue to serve as shining beacons of hope and opportunity, and people in every corner of the world flock to them to experience a higher standard of living, start families, and found businesses, in a migration trend known as urbanization. This trend has made of cities intellectual hubs and cultural and financial centers. But cities also have congestion, pollution, and public safety issues. Continued globalization and urbanization have tested the limits of the city’s health, power, safety, and transport infrastructures. With globalization came rapid change in technology, trade liberalization, and in the relationship between production, sales, and consumption. Cities must become smarter to be able to compete globally. Building smart cities with local characteristics is an important factor in cities’ ability to secure a place in the competition of globalization.
Keywords: Smart city; Internet of Things (IoT); Internet of Everything (IoE); Information and Communication Technology (ICT); digitalization
Professional Exchange
Enhancing Students’ Interpersonal Capabilities through Service Learning: A Hong Kong Case - Jacqueline CHAN Huixuan Xu Si Si LIU
Jacqueline CHAN
Adjunct Associate Professor, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, The Education University of Hong Kong
Huixuan Xu
Assistant Professor, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, The Education University of Hong Kong
Si Si LIU
Post-doctoral Fellow, Department of Special Education and Counselling, The Education University of Hong Kong
【Abstract】This study aims to explore whether university co-curricular courses with embedded service-learning have an effect on students’ interpersonal capability development, and how course quality relates to student outcomes. It used a mixed-methods approach comprising surveys and interviews. The survey data show that students’ self-perceived relationship management skills improved in all co-curricular courses. Students’ perception of their own awareness of others’ experiences and feelings, however, was found to have worsened. Course quality was found to be a predictor of both aspects of interpersonal development, suggesting that closer alignment of courses with the recommended quality standards will make them more effective in promoting students’ interpersonal capabilities. The qualitative data echo the quantitative findings and reveal that course characteristics, such as meaningful experience, diversity, student voice, and group work, are significant for developing students’ interpersonal capabilities.
Keywords: Service-learning; Interpersonal capabilities; Co-curricular; Higher education
Adjunct Associate Professor, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, The Education University of Hong Kong
Huixuan Xu
Assistant Professor, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, The Education University of Hong Kong
Si Si LIU
Post-doctoral Fellow, Department of Special Education and Counselling, The Education University of Hong Kong
【Abstract】This study aims to explore whether university co-curricular courses with embedded service-learning have an effect on students’ interpersonal capability development, and how course quality relates to student outcomes. It used a mixed-methods approach comprising surveys and interviews. The survey data show that students’ self-perceived relationship management skills improved in all co-curricular courses. Students’ perception of their own awareness of others’ experiences and feelings, however, was found to have worsened. Course quality was found to be a predictor of both aspects of interpersonal development, suggesting that closer alignment of courses with the recommended quality standards will make them more effective in promoting students’ interpersonal capabilities. The qualitative data echo the quantitative findings and reveal that course characteristics, such as meaningful experience, diversity, student voice, and group work, are significant for developing students’ interpersonal capabilities.
Keywords: Service-learning; Interpersonal capabilities; Co-curricular; Higher education
Adolescents’ Love, Sex and Holistic Development - Anna NG
Anna NG
Director of Student Affairs cum Assistant Professor
Caritas Institute of Higher Education
Caritas Bianchi College of Career
【Abstract】Based on theories of love and sex, and the author’s teaching, research and experience of clinical case counselling, this paper analysed the effect of adolescents’ perspectives on sex and love on their holistic development. Holistic development encompasses five aspects: physical, emotional, spiritual, social and career development. Adolescents’ outlook on love, sexual knowledge, and sexual attitudes exerts significant effects on their holistic development. To implement effective sex education, it is necessary to train teachers on the subject. Only with specialized teachers teaching sex education as a specialized subject, will we be able to foster healthy youth development.
Keywords: Adolescent; Holistic development; Love; Sex; Sex education
Director of Student Affairs cum Assistant Professor
Caritas Institute of Higher Education
Caritas Bianchi College of Career
【Abstract】Based on theories of love and sex, and the author’s teaching, research and experience of clinical case counselling, this paper analysed the effect of adolescents’ perspectives on sex and love on their holistic development. Holistic development encompasses five aspects: physical, emotional, spiritual, social and career development. Adolescents’ outlook on love, sexual knowledge, and sexual attitudes exerts significant effects on their holistic development. To implement effective sex education, it is necessary to train teachers on the subject. Only with specialized teachers teaching sex education as a specialized subject, will we be able to foster healthy youth development.
Keywords: Adolescent; Holistic development; Love; Sex; Sex education
Hope or False hope? The Transformation and Limitation of Sports-based Intervention for Youth Career Development in Hong Kong - Ka Ki CHAN Pui Lim CHEUNG
Ka Ki CHAN
Lecturer, Department of Social Work, Hong Kong Baptist University
Pui Lim CHEUNG
Social Worker, Hong Kong Children and Youth Services
【Abstract】Sports-based intervention for young people has been developing in Hong Kong over five decades. Beginning in the 1970s, sports have been used as a means of engaging young people through leisure activities with children and youth services. These sports activities have been aimed at establishing healthy lifestyles and boosting young people’s self-esteem. During the early 2000s, however, in a period of economic downturn, this approach shifted to become more career-oriented. Sports-based intervention is no longer implemented in a leisure context, and has instead become a method of career counselling for young people, as well as recognized as a possible pathway for young people to develop careers in sport. This article discusses the long history of sports in youth work, and analyses the effects of current policy in promoting this sort of sports-based intervention.
Keywords: Sports-based Intervention; Youth Career Development; Youth Services, Sports Industry
Lecturer, Department of Social Work, Hong Kong Baptist University
Pui Lim CHEUNG
Social Worker, Hong Kong Children and Youth Services
【Abstract】Sports-based intervention for young people has been developing in Hong Kong over five decades. Beginning in the 1970s, sports have been used as a means of engaging young people through leisure activities with children and youth services. These sports activities have been aimed at establishing healthy lifestyles and boosting young people’s self-esteem. During the early 2000s, however, in a period of economic downturn, this approach shifted to become more career-oriented. Sports-based intervention is no longer implemented in a leisure context, and has instead become a method of career counselling for young people, as well as recognized as a possible pathway for young people to develop careers in sport. This article discusses the long history of sports in youth work, and analyses the effects of current policy in promoting this sort of sports-based intervention.
Keywords: Sports-based Intervention; Youth Career Development; Youth Services, Sports Industry
The Life and Career Planning of Young “Ritualists” in Hong Kong - Nga Sze LAW Hang LI
Nga Sze LAW
Junior Research Associate, Social Research Centre, Hong Kong Shue Yan University
Postgraduate Student, MA in Sociology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Hang LI
Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Hong Kong Shue Yan University
Research Associate, Social Research Centre, Hong Kong Shue Yan University
【Abstract】Based on Merton’s strain theory and borrowing his concept of “ritualism,” this paper explores the life and career planning of the “post-90s” youth in Hong Kong. These young people “ritualistically” conform to “mainstream” social values but are actually looking for an “alternative” career path. Though they conform to mainstream values by following their parents’ wishes and getting a bachelor’s degree entirely unrelated to their dream career, they subsequently pursue their dream with support from their parents. The qualitative data shows that the “ritualists” of the post-90s mostly come from families of middle-class backgrounds. This finding highlights the conceptual importance of “class” for future research on adulthood transition and adolescent career development.
Keywords: Post-90s; Social Mobility; Ritualism
Junior Research Associate, Social Research Centre, Hong Kong Shue Yan University
Postgraduate Student, MA in Sociology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Hang LI
Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Hong Kong Shue Yan University
Research Associate, Social Research Centre, Hong Kong Shue Yan University
【Abstract】Based on Merton’s strain theory and borrowing his concept of “ritualism,” this paper explores the life and career planning of the “post-90s” youth in Hong Kong. These young people “ritualistically” conform to “mainstream” social values but are actually looking for an “alternative” career path. Though they conform to mainstream values by following their parents’ wishes and getting a bachelor’s degree entirely unrelated to their dream career, they subsequently pursue their dream with support from their parents. The qualitative data shows that the “ritualists” of the post-90s mostly come from families of middle-class backgrounds. This finding highlights the conceptual importance of “class” for future research on adulthood transition and adolescent career development.
Keywords: Post-90s; Social Mobility; Ritualism
Practice and Effectiveness of a Job Preparation Program for Vulnerable Adolescent in Taiwan - Chung Yi HU Pei Xun GAO Wen Chi HO
Chung Yi HU
Professor, Department of Social Work, National Taipei University Pei Xun GAO
Social Worker, Good Shepherd Social Welfare Foundation
Wen Chi HO
District Director, Good Shepherd Social Welfare Foundation
【Abstract】This study set out to explore the goals, strategies and intervention effectiveness of a job preparation program for vulnerable adolescents in Taiwan. This study used focus groups to collect data from eight social workers. The results revealed six types of effectiveness, including job skills, communication, problem solving, job ethic, financial management, and career exploration. Lastly, this study suggests that youth workers must pay attention to the social exclusion in the labor market, and use empowerment and resilience perspective to carry out the job preparation program.
Keywords: Unemployment; Empowerment; Resilience; Job Preparation; Vulnerable Adolescent
Professor, Department of Social Work, National Taipei University Pei Xun GAO
Social Worker, Good Shepherd Social Welfare Foundation
Wen Chi HO
District Director, Good Shepherd Social Welfare Foundation
【Abstract】This study set out to explore the goals, strategies and intervention effectiveness of a job preparation program for vulnerable adolescents in Taiwan. This study used focus groups to collect data from eight social workers. The results revealed six types of effectiveness, including job skills, communication, problem solving, job ethic, financial management, and career exploration. Lastly, this study suggests that youth workers must pay attention to the social exclusion in the labor market, and use empowerment and resilience perspective to carry out the job preparation program.
Keywords: Unemployment; Empowerment; Resilience; Job Preparation; Vulnerable Adolescent
Collective Narrative Practice: The Collaborative Journey and Concerted Efforts of Young People and their Significant Others against Internet Addiction - Amy HO Esther LAM Fiona SZE Angela TSUN Sharon LEUNG Lily WONG Frenda LAU Raymond CHUNG
Amy HO Esther LAM Lily WONG Frenda LAU
Youth Work Officer, Wellness Mind Centre, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
Fiona SZE
Narrative Practice Practitioner
Angela TSUN
Narrative Practice Practitioner, Supervisor and Researcher Sharon LEUNG
Associate Director, Centre for Youth Research & Practice, Hong Kong Baptist University
Raymond CHUNG
Fieldwork Supervisor, Department of Social Work, Hong Kong Baptist University
【Abstract】This paper reviews a collective narrative practice project conducted by the Wellness Mind Centre of the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups and HKBU for junior secondary students whose lives have been affected by “internet addiction.” Despite the pathological label of “internet addiction,” the project was able to rebuild young people’s preferred identity and reconnect their knowledge, skills, values, commitment, hopes, and dreams about life through collaboration with their significant others. Inviting teachers and parents as outsider witnesses, young people’s stories and achievements were shared, heard, understood, retold, and thickened in the telling and retelling process. Student participants, teachers, and parents were invited to share their experiences of the project in different focus group interviews. This paper discusses the project and the reflections it brings on the lives of young people, teachers, and parents.
Keywords: Collective Narrative Practice; Outsider-Witness Practice; Internet Addiction Among Youth
Youth Work Officer, Wellness Mind Centre, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
Fiona SZE
Narrative Practice Practitioner
Angela TSUN
Narrative Practice Practitioner, Supervisor and Researcher Sharon LEUNG
Associate Director, Centre for Youth Research & Practice, Hong Kong Baptist University
Raymond CHUNG
Fieldwork Supervisor, Department of Social Work, Hong Kong Baptist University
【Abstract】This paper reviews a collective narrative practice project conducted by the Wellness Mind Centre of the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups and HKBU for junior secondary students whose lives have been affected by “internet addiction.” Despite the pathological label of “internet addiction,” the project was able to rebuild young people’s preferred identity and reconnect their knowledge, skills, values, commitment, hopes, and dreams about life through collaboration with their significant others. Inviting teachers and parents as outsider witnesses, young people’s stories and achievements were shared, heard, understood, retold, and thickened in the telling and retelling process. Student participants, teachers, and parents were invited to share their experiences of the project in different focus group interviews. This paper discusses the project and the reflections it brings on the lives of young people, teachers, and parents.
Keywords: Collective Narrative Practice; Outsider-Witness Practice; Internet Addiction Among Youth