The Hong Kong government is taking steps to address the looming manpower shortage by bringing in 10,000 skilled technicians, according to Chief Secretary Eric Chan. In a recent radio program, Chan highlighted the projected shortage of 180,000 workers across various sectors, with 60,000 of those vacancies specifically for skilled technicians. The remaining 50,000 spots will be reserved for local workers who express interest in these positions.
Chan emphasized that certain conditions must be met by incoming technicians, including holding a valid license and working solely within their designated industry while in Hong Kong. The aim is to attract younger workers to the industry in order to lower the average age of the workforce and ensure long-term sustainability.
While labor importation schemes offer a short-term solution, the government is committed to training local workers to address the issue in the long term. As outlined in the new Policy Address, plans are underway to establish a campus for the Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology, along with the development of the Lift and Escalator Technology Centre under the Vocational Training Council.
Both universities and the Vocational Training Council will focus on cultivating high-tech talents to meet industry demands. Incentives for research will be increased, with scholarships being offered to students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees in relevant fields.
Chan stressed the importance of high technology in driving future development, with educational institutions tailoring courses to meet industry needs. The goal is to encourage individuals to excel in their respective fields and provide them with the necessary resources to further their education and training in high-tech sectors.
By investing in the training and education of local workers, the government aims to build a skilled workforce that can meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market. These initiatives seek to not only address the current manpower shortage but also prepare Hong Kong for a future driven by innovation and technological advancement.