Professional Documents
Culture Documents
June
2013
Volume 5 Number 2
Youth
HONG KONG
responsibilities
rowing
YOUTH HONG KONG published quarterly by The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups EDITORIAL BOARD Rosanna Wong Elaine Morgan (Editor) Ada Chau (Assistant Editor) Angela Ngai Lakshmi Jacot William Chung Veronica Pearson CIRCULATION (unaudited) 10,000-12,000 in Hong Kong, throughout the region and overseas VIEWS EXPRESSED are the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher REPRODUCTION OF CONTENTS without written permission from the publisher is prohibited INTERVIEWS Elaine Morgan Ada Chau Kevin Chan OTHER CONTRIBUTORS Ronald Tang Tiffany Ip Pradyumn Dayal Queenie Lau Kanika Bali ARTWORK Sam Suen, DG3; Ada Chau, Edwin Kwok, Elaine Morgan Other artwork from archive, acknowledged as captioned or in public domain. DESIGN, LAYOUT & PRINTING DG3 Asia Ltd ISSN 2071-3193 WEB youthhongkong.hkfyg.org.hk CORRESPONDENCE to The Editor, Youth Hong Kong, 21/F, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups Building, 21 Pak Fuk Road, North Point, Hong Kong TEL 3755 7084, 3755 7108 FAX 3755 7155 EMAIL youthhongkong@hkfyg.org.hk ADVERTISING enquiries to Ada Chau 3755 7108 THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF YOUTH GROUPS Founded in 1960, it is one of the citys largest non-profit youth organizations. Its programmes and activities at over 60 locations are attended by 5 million participants every year. CORE SERVICES Counselling, Creativity Education & Youth Exchange, e-Services, Education Services, Leadership Training, Leisure, Cultural & Sports Services, Parent-child Mediation, Research & Publications, Services for Youth at Risk, Volunteer Services, Youth Employment, Youth SPOTs, www.hkfyg.org.hk, www.u21.hk
4
OVERVIEW
Population policy Low birthrate Shrinking workforce Ageing population
Youth
Hong Kong
June 2013 Volume 5 Number 2
Contents
OVERVIEW 4 Difficult decisions Policy and responsibilities INTERVIEWS 6 Paul Yip: HKU Birthrates: reversing the trend 9 Caroline Mak: HKRMA Wanted: top quality, best fit 12 Richard Wong: HKU Ageing and the big blip YOUTH WATCH 16 Demographics, distortions and dependents Hong Kong, mainland China and overseas YOUTH VIEWS 20 Where have all the babies gone? FPAHK: latest survey TALKING POINT 23 Quality, qualifications and youth Opening Hong Kong's doors YOUTH SPEAK 26 The sandwich generation Priorities, responsibilities and conflicts 28 Ronald Tang Teenager looks at future 29 Strong moral bonds And low expectations FOOD, CULTURE & SPORT 30 Organic 21 & HKFYG Organic Farm 32 Tiffany Ip Passion, practice, patience 33 Pradyumn Dayal Sports, and playing with friends INTERNETSCOPE 35 Queenie Lau Multimodal multimedia 38 Kanika Bali Khan Academy Comments from educators and students CITY SPACE 40 Kevin Chan & Ada Chau WEEE go green HKFYG 44 Summer Youth Programme 45 Leadership 21 46 China Week: 5 films on culture and history 48 M21 multimedia: getting into gear 50 Letters and further reading
6-15
INTERVIEWS
Richard Wong Paul Yip Caroline Mak
16
YOUTH WATCH
Hong Kong & Mainland China France, India, Japan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, UK
20-29
YOUTH VIEWS TALKING POINT YOUTH SPEAK
30-43
FEATURES
Food, culture, sport Internet Environment
44-49
HKFYG
Summer Programme Leadership Chinese films Multimedia
Editorial
hree factors emerge as challenges for population policy makers in Hong Kong: an ageing population, the low birth rate and the need for talent in the
workplace. These issues are not unique to Hong Kong, but they do reflect the growing responsibilities that will be placed on todays young people. Youth Hong Kong examines these topics in the context of youth seeking employment in a competitive environment, considering becoming parents, and making provision for their elderly dependents. Interviews with specialists in demographics, in economics and human resources, all of whom are on the governments Steering Committee on Population Policy, indicate the directions that should be considered. These experts emphasize what is required for Hong Kong to confront the challenges ahead, and to help maintain our productivity and competitiveness. What emerges is that the time is right for hard questions to be posed which might require even harder responses to ensure that a versatile, flexible strategy can be implemented. We need a policy that supports and reinforces not only the centrality of the family, but also the adaptability of the workplace as a familyfriendly environment. We must also tackle contentious issues like life-banking, looking towards the future of our elderly and making it a part of the education of every young person. We urge you to share your views on this important and common challenge for all of us.
Dr Rosanna Wong, DBE, JP Executive Director, HKFYG June 2013
Photo by Amanda D. Olson
Overview
Difficult Decisions A
s the Steering Committee on Population Policy meets, Hong Kong is at a crossroads. Faced with an ageing population, a low fertility rate and the need for talent in the workforce, the city has to find ways to deal with major challenges while also planning for the future. This involves growing responsibilities, especially for members of todays younger generation.
At the end of 2012, the government changed the composition of the Steering Committee. Instead of relying only on officials from government bureaux, members now include academics, those who work in the social services, health care providers, business people, educators and human resource managers. What this indicates is that any future population policy will include not only community voices, but also community efforts to make long term development viable.1 What is also apparent in the expansion is that the time is right for responsibility to be shared, between the government, the business sector, nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) and the general public. No doubt, some of the key issues will involve protracted debate, but, more fundamentally, they will mean difficult decisions have to be made.
and banks can offer competitive pension, investment and health care schemes to make such saving attractive. There might be initial resistance to saving for pensions, especially in times of economic downturn, but Hong Kong is known for self-reliance and the long-term benefits must be stressed. Public finance can be more sustainable for the long term if it is not required to fund pensions for the elderly. This is especially true if an ageing population is, like Hong Kongs, paralleled with low fertility which means that there will be fewer people contributing to government revenue for social welfare handouts.
Supporting livelihoods
The ageing population could also prompt a delay in the retirement age, allowing those who are in good health to continue contributing to the economy. For those Accepting shared responsibility who consider themselves able to afford retirement, but An ageing population is not unique to Hong Kong. who remain active and engaged, their contributions Many factors being looked at around the world are similar must be sought, either as volunteers and mentors. to those at work here. Who will finance the elderly is one of them. Governments cannot be called upon to do Other issues, more specific to Hong Kong, include this alone. Those who can afford to save for their own how to offer livelihood support schemes to the elderly, retirement need to be encouraged to do so. Businesses particularly those of lesser means. A related area to be explored is whether subsidies can also be used across the border where the cost of living is lower.
Overview
Families too face difficult decisions. What are their responsibilities for finance, housing, health, welfare and emotional support for their members? This is not just an issue for those of lower economic means. Members of the middle class also have to assess their role in looking after ageing family members in times of income stagnation. While the population is ageing, fertility is dropping. Again, Hong Kong is not alone. In South Korea, for example, the President is promising to expand state provision for childcare and halve tuition fees.2 In Singapore, the government recently passed a US$1.5 billion parenthood and fertility package which includes paternity leave and educational cartoons with tips on how to find love.3 Yet, realistically, how can governments be expected to offer sufficient incentives to young people who are reluctant to become parents? In Hong Kong, measures to increase the fertility rate can include government action on the provision of affordable, adequate housing for raising young families. Employers can consider offering family-friendly work environments. Perhaps the third sector will be able to provide sufficient day care, crches and after-school services to ensure the health and safety of children with working parents. In all these initiatives, resources are required and difficult decisions need to be taken on where the money will come from and how it will be spent.
about a surge of foreigners putting a strain on resources, pushing down salaries and raising property prices.4 There is also worry about loss of identity. If Hong Kong people feel the same, what can the government do to allay such concerns?
Investing in flexibility
The city has always attracted a cosmopolitan workforce and with good infrastructure, improved air quality, talented, experienced people from outside Hong Kong will continue to come here. Flexibility is the key. With that, there can be openness and a warm welcome for non-Hong Kong-born talent. Barriers to a seamless inflow can be lifted, protectionism will drop and productivity will be raised. Building home-grown talent requires investment in education and vocational training. A smoother transition from school to work is feasible with cooperation from the education and business sectors plus support from NGOs. Social innovation needs resources but with local-born youth secure in jobs there will be less question of any threat from incoming talent. None of these issues will be easily resolved and all will require some hard decisions. However, with a concerted commitment by government, employers, the community and individuals, this is possible. First there needs to be a comprehensive population policy with clear direction and goals. With forward-looking, long-term vision there is no doubt that this can be achieved.
Sources
1. http://www.legco.gov.hk/yr12-13/english/sec/library/1213in04_20130320-e.pdf 2. http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/3be6ec40-4dd4-11e2-9e71-00144feab49a.html#axzz2Vnkt6HMB 3. http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/mar/22/singapore-fairytales-warn-declining-fertility 4. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-21485729
Interviews
by inu_ii3
If every woman in Hong Kong had 2.1 children our population would be able to replace itself and stay at current levels. However, the actual fertility rate in 2011 was only 1.2, far below the replacement rate. Over 20 years ago the figure was above 1.9 but it had dropped to about 1.3 by 1991 and is projected to fall to 1.15 in the next 30 years.
Professor Paul Yip Siu-fai, Department of Social Work & Social Administration at the University of Hong Kong, is also a member of the Steering Committee on Population Policy and Chair of the Research Subcommittee of the Family Planning Association of Hong Kong. He is the lead researcher in the current large scale 5-year demographic survey funded by the University Grants Committee.
Interviews
According to the latest Family Planning Association Survey of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Half of Hong Kongs flats (FPAHK KAP), an increasing sense of the burdens involved are less than 500 square in bringing up children is the feet. How can prospective big disincentive. Although parents contemplate adding we have twelve years of free schooling, children still cost a another person? lot to educate in good Hong Kong schools. Furthermore, some of the stress of putting In 1981, on average, women had their first child them through exams today results from higher when they were 25 years old. In 2011 that age was levels of parental participation in homework and up to 30. Three child families are rare today and revision and the need to put aside time for this. 60% of all married couples in Hong Kong have either one child, or no children, by choice. The The awareness of impending financial burdens and the estimated proportion of women who have never extra sense of parental responsibility are up by 10-15% in their lives married has risen, up from 3% in the since the FPAHK KAP of 2007, says Professor Yip. 80s to 20% in 2011. According to surveys, said Women may have higher incomes now than in the past Professor Yip, they intend to remain single. but they also have much greater awareness of potential problems. We need to try to remove the barriers and provide more education for parents. Money alone wont Is Hong Kong different? help. Sometimes it is the mindset of parents that needs Ageing populations and falling birthrates are to change if they feel burdened and excessively worried. affecting many countries around the world. However, the demographic in developed Asian Are there solutions? countries differs from that of western countries. This is partly because it is more common in the One important part of population policy is ensuring west for unmarried parents to have children whereas that it helps create a conducive, family-friendly it is rarely seen in Asian societies where traditional environment that will actually encourage a higher attitudes still prevail, commented Professor Yip. birthrate. Right now, according to Professor Yip, Young people here still say they want to get married In some senses we have a society in Hong Kong where and have children, but by the time they are at east meets west, but in this respect it is not fusing university they are aware of the problems: the need smoothly. Young women are caught in the middle. They to find the right partner, the need for enough money may have aspirations to bring up children which cannot and the need to devote enough time to children. be fulfilled. The whole landscape of family structure has changed and is still in rapid transition. This is not unique Issues such as taxes and housing also need to be to Hong Kong but the speed of change is very unusual addressed, Professor Yip argues. Perhaps this means and the distortion and uncertainty caused by babies higher taxes for all. Housing in Hong Kong also born in Hong Kong to mainland women is unique. needs a comprehensive review. Currently it is one of
by rh traveler_1
Interviews
the biggest barriers to family formation among Hong Kongs young people. Half of Hong Kongs flats are less than 500 square feet. How can prospective parents contemplate adding another person? Other issues such as education and day care must also be included in population policy discussions. Employers, cognizant of family needs, will have to rethink their policy and practice in this respect. Young couples need crches and childcare facilities in the workplace, better maternity and paternity leave and flexible work options. Given todays long working hours, how can a family-friendly policy exist? Instead, we have discrimination. Companies that want to hire young women look for those with no intention of getting married, or older women whose kids are grown up, says Professor Yip. Such employers are not conforming to the ethos of corporate social responsibility. CSR doesnt just mean donating to charity, it also means looking after your employees.
Hong Kongs speed of change is very unusual and the distortion caused by mainland families is unique.
1.281
1.191
1.190
1.164
1.151
1991
1996
2001
2006
2011
2016
2021
2026
2031
2036
2041
Interviews
Wanted
E
mployers have increasing difficulty in attracting talent and matching jobs with skills of applicants. This is partly because Hong Kong has ridden a roller coaster of uncertainty that affected individual choices about education, work and raising families, says Caroline Mak who puts forward her ideas for reversing the trend.
Employers need to be flexible and ready for change in order to attract and keep potential talent. In the first two to three years, new young hires should be free to explore. But by their mid-20s, talented youngsters should have a clear idea of what they want and be ready to go for it.
Western countries have adjusted to new patterns like this, as they have to many employees working from home. Computers make it easy and that makes for family-friendliness. Now it is our turn to change. Resistance to change is the biggest problem of all, but if employers stimulate and encourage change they will both attract talent and retain it.
Interviews
by waldopepper
by CG94 photos
Learning for work Do independent internal surveys to learn about the talent you have and the talent you are about to lose.
To retain talent also means being creative. Failure to retain talent is usually an employers fault. When a staff member leaves, both parties should speak out about their reasons. But the bigger your organization, the harder it is to keep your finger on the pulse. So I encourage employers to hire an independent company to do internal staff surveys. It means people will be honest about their employers. Thats the way you really learn: about the talented people you have, and about the talented people you lose. Talent comes in many shapes and doesnt necessarily involve having a degree. Some talent has to be nurtured and theres no such thing as a generally talented person. Its up to us as employers to identify the talent we need, to seek out hidden talent and stimulate it, redeploying staff within our companies where necessary to make the most of their abilities and skill sets. Today, the emphasis is on general education which Ms Mak says does not suit everyone. There is not enough vocational training in my view. I went to Hotung Technical School for Girls because I was given a choice in Form 3. At that time I preferred to qualify in secretarial work which would give me a job if I didnt go to university. It was the right decision for me. Now there is no such choice. Vocational training is seen as the last resort.
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Interviews
by REGUSmedia
There is a pressing need to plan for infrastructure development and the workforce that matches it. Technical expertise for building the third runway is one example, says Ms Mak, who is also a board member of the Airport Authority, We need road and bridge-builders, architects and civil engineers. These are specialists who we will have to bring in, as well as providing training opportunities for our own young people. We know this, but are we doing anything about it?
Similarly, women, who tend to drop out of the workforce when they are 50, need encouragement to stay, or to return to work after retraining. Optional retirement could be offered to senior staff.
Closed mindedness
Homegrown manpower will not be enough, she says. Demand already far outstrips supply. So why are we so afraid of imported of labour? There is so much prejudice, she continued. There is a shortage of medical personnel and pharmacists, but lack of reciprocal qualifications. Qualified, Australian, Cantonese-speaking pharmacists, badly needed by the retail sector, consistently fail the exam that would let them work here. Why? Short-sighted protectionism. Result? A permanent shortage. If we dont change and open up to overseas talent we will bury ourselves.
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Interviews
big
blip
rofessor Richard Wong has written extensively about Hong Kong society, its economy and population. He says the construction of a new, coherent population policy that provides for our rapidly ageing society will have to take into account conflicting policy frameworks and an anomalous blip in dependency.
Hong Kong inherited two conflicting legacies, Professor Wong explained. One promoted individual responsibility and limited government. The other introduced a welfare state through interventionist government. Subsequently, problems concerning population policy have emerged that are linked to these legacies. Remedying the problems, will be a long-term challenge and may be compromised, derailed, held to ransom, and sacrificed for short term political expediency.
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Interviews
by wabetta design
Extending the retirement age is an antidote to the negative economic effects of an ageing population but implementing it is a political hot potato. Civil servants, and all those with secure, guaranteed pensions, will be This efficiency includes productive health care services reluctant to retire later. If they do so they will benefit less, and housing for family members close to one another for unlike most of the workforce. The Civil Service makes up mutual support, Professor Wong continued. Singapore only 6% of the total working population but only when has public housing units for 80% of the population the government moves on this issue will the rest follow. with 90% of those units privately owned. There is motivation for family cohesion because of discounts Saving for retirement in Hong Kong depends partly on for those buying a units in the same neighbourhood. the governments contributory Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) into which workers and employers Professor Wong, emphasizing the hypothetical both pay. Like Singapores Central Provident Fund, working couple with dependents, was encouraging. it is a government scheme that is not redistributive. There is much that can be done for them, if only I do not think it is a good idea to save with we are willing to exercise our imaginations. government. The MPF is badly designed and benefits the custodian fund managers, not the savers.
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Interviews
Figure 1 Population figures: 1961-2031
7.44
5.18
5.05
4.92
5.06
6
4.05
5.52
5.75
6.44
6.71
6.86
7.12
0 - 19
20 - 64
65+
All ages
7.81
8.15
3.63
3.17
1.91 2.37
1.89 1.97
1.81 1.68
1.85
1.73
1.62
1.65
1.47 1.6
1.38
1.46
1.26
1.22
0.34
0.42
1961
0.1
1966
1.161
0.14
1971
0.18
1976
0.24
1981
1986
1991
Total
0.5
1996
0.65
2001
Young
0.75
2006
0.85
2011
0.94
2016
1.17
1.28
2021
1.39
2026
1.41
1.54
1.84
2031
2.18
2.99
3.37
3.63
4.13
4.42
4.52
4.63
4.92
4.87
8.47
1.4 1.2 1
Elderly
0.738 0.657 0.583 0.445 0.557 0.399 0.52 0.35 0.171 0.184 0.191 0.542 0.481 0.297 0.448 0.257 0.472 0.374 0.241 0.231 0.289 0.253 0.283 0.29 0.448
0.063
0.082
0.093
0.103
0.115
0.126
0.138
0.158
1961
1966
1971
1976
1981
1986
1991
1996
2001
2006
2011
2016
2021
2026
2031
Notes and source Figures in the table are in millions. The table shows the actual and projected number of people in Hong Kong for five-year periods from 1961 to 2031 by three age groups: 0-19, 20-64, and over 65. Taking the 0-19 year-olds as young dependents and the over 65s as an approximate number of elderly dependents, it can be seen that the dependency ratio for the elderly, 0.191 in 2011 is projected to grow to 0.448 by 2031. It will be equal to the ratio represented today of the young and the elderly combined. http://www.wangyujian.com/?p=631&lang=en.
There is much that can be done... if we are willing to exercise our imaginations.
Old age social security schemes with redistributive elements that transfer resources from richer to poorer individuals through taxes and transfer payments can dampen the work incentive, says Professor Wong. Imagine a young lower income man with a retired mother, a wife and two children. What will he do if the government offers his mother a pension? He will probably say he needs to save for his own family if the government is looking after her. Young people should be encouraged to be responsible for their parents as a sign of intergenerational social contract but by raising taxes enough to give a universal pension we would give the son a perverse incentive not to support his mother.
14
Interviews
Professor Yue Chim Richard Wong, SBS, JP is Professor of Economics and the Philip Wong Kennedy Wong Professor in Political Economy at the University of Hong Kong. He was Founding Director of the School of Business, Founding Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost. One focus of his research is the political economy of public policy property, housing, labour and population. This article is based partly on an interview with Professor Wong and partly on his web-based publications, extracts from which have been reproduced here with his kind permission.
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by inu_ii2
Youth watch
Demographics, distor
ong Kong needs more young people for sustainable growth but women are marrying later, if at all, and having fewer children. Meanwhile, greater longevity is placing an increasing burden on a shrinking workforce. This applies to many countries but both Hong Kong and the mainland face some unique distortions.
0.6%
28.9 in 2011
Dependency ratios
Over 65s by 2041 30%
of the population
Dependency ratio* of under 15s and over 65s up from 333 to 645 by 2041 Under 15s down from 12% to 9% by 2041
Never married women aged 40-44 in 2011 17% (up from 6% in 1991)
years
84.4 years
Females
90.8 years
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Youth watch
0.46%
According to the National Bureau of Statistics, over 24 million marriageable males will be single by 2020. Studies show the mainlands labour force of about 930 In March 2013 the Central Chinese government merged million will start declining in 2025 at a rate of about 10 million a year. Chinas population is expected to the Family Planning Commission with the Ministry of Health and moved population policy-making to the more peak around 2030 with 1.46 billion people and then central National Development and Reform Commission. begin falling to 1.3 billion by 2050. With the OneChild Policy in place, it will achieve zero population growth by 2025. By 2050, this will be -0.5%. One-Child Policy
* China Health and Retirement Longitudinal study, 2013.
Total Fertility rate (TFR) estimate 1.20-1.55 Life expectancy birth females 77.1, males 72.8 Over 65s today approx 360 million Sex ratio at birth 118 males: 100 females Difficulties coping alone 38%*
over 51% of China's population lives in urban areas. In rural areas, Han Chinese families can apply to have a second child if a baby has disabilities, if the mother and father are both single children or if the first child is a girl. Women often abort female foetuses or abandon newborn girls. Infanticide at birth is also practised.4
Future projections
The nations One-Child Policy is applied most strictly to Han Chinese in urban areas. Han Chinese represent more than 91% of the Chinese population and just
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Youth watch
United Kingdom
Britain has no population policy and there is no agreement on whether there should be a maximum population size. A 2009-2010 Citizenship Survey 32 showed the majority of Britons wanted immigration numbers reduced. Population 63,395,574 Growth rate 0.553% Sex ratio at birth 105 males: 100 females TFR 1.9 (per woman) Life expectancy at birth (male & female) 80.17 years Incentives Britain has a generous welfare system which supports free medical care, free education, child support, parental support and subsidized housing. The country has traditionally opened its doors to migrants from former colonies and now the EU. Effects, trends and problems Britains population is growing and the fertility rate is near replacement. The growth has been assisted by immigration and higher levels of fertility among migrants. One in six of the 33 population is from an ethnic minority or white non-British background. Projections suggest that the population will hit 70 million around 2033. Britains over-65s now outnumber people under the age of 16. There are currently four people of working age supporting each pensioner in Britain, 34 by 2035 this number is expected to fall to 2.5, and by 2050 to two.
France
Frances family policy has increased the birthrate while keeping as 1 many women in work as possible. It already has 11.8 million foreignborn residents and direct descendants born in France (19% of 2 total ) and accepts about 200,000 new immigrants each year. Population: 65,951,611 Growth rate 0.47% Sex ratio at birth 105 males: 100 females TFR 2.08 (per woman) Life expectancy at birth (male & female) 81.5 years Incentives Free eductation from age 3 to university Grants, allowances, tax breaks and highly subsidized childcare services Generous maternity leave Preferential public housing, mortgage rates and cheaper 3 public transport for families with 3+ children Effects, trends and problems Incentives offered to companies employing 4 over 50s. Statutory retirement age is 62. The age for a full pension is 67 except for those with 41 years of social security contributions in 2012.5
India
The first National Population Policy was introduced in 2000 with the long-term objective 6 of a stable population by 2045 . The birthrate continues to exceed replacement level. Population 1,220,800,359 Growth rate 1.312% Sex ratio at birth 112 males: 100 females TFR 2.55 children (per woman) Life expectancy at birth (male & female) 67.14 years Incentives Free health care, birth control and sex education. Cash is offered by the government to 7 8 unmarried girls at 18 but more than 50% marry earlier. Scholarships for girls and other incentives for families with girls are offered in some states to reduce gender 9 imbalance and try to delay marriages and childbirth. Effects, trends and problems Contraceptive needs are unmet and Indias population is expected to grow to 1.9 billion by 2050. High infant mortality contributes to people wanting more children. Unlike many countries, India has no ageing problem. Half of its people are under 25.10
Singapore
Since 1980, Singapores parents have been encouraged to have 25 more children. A government white paper published in January 26 2013 said the country would also accept more migrants to sustain growth. The city-state's projected population is 7 million in 2030. Population 5,460,302 Growth rate 1.993% Sex ratio at birth 107 males: 100 females TFR 1.29 (per woman) Life expectancy at birth (male & female) 83.75 years Incentives 1987 Have Three or More (if you can afford it) Campaign began 2001 Baby Bonus Scheme announced with financial and housing incentives 2002 Romancing Singapore Campaign spurred couples to have sex 2009 Social Development Network Singaporeans encouraged to marry and procreate 013 Marriage & Parenthood Package 2013 announced 2 013 Hey Baby website lists all benefits for newlyweds and parents: 2 subsidized accommodation, medical benefits, maternity and paternity benefits, child payments [also includes dating services] Effects, trends and problems TFR rose from its 2010 record low of 1.15 to 29 1.29 in 2012 but over 450,000 are aged 65+ and by 2050, nearly 30% will be 30 over 65. Those aged 21-60 will be only 40%. The foreign immigrants policy aims to redress this imbalance. The Committee on Ageing Issues was set up 31 in 2004 to deal with housing, care and opportunities for older people.
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Youth watch
South Korea
South Korea is one of the fastest ageing countries in the world. Its first 20 population policy (1962) was designed to limit population. By 1988, TFR had fallen below replacement level. By 2005, it reached a historic 21 global low of 1.08. South Korea's plan is to increase TFR to 1.6 by 2020. Population 48,955,203 Growth rate 0.204% Sex ratio at birth 107 males: 100 females TFR 1.24 (per woman) Life expectancy at birth (male & female) 79.3 years Incentives The Saero-Maji Plan (new beginning) includes tax incentives, priority for purchase of new apartments, support for child care including childcare facilities at work, support for education, and assistance for infertile couples. Effects, trends and problems Immigrants have risen to 2.8% of the 22 population, and could make up more than 6% by 2030. The cost of raising children and rising employment opportunities for women means fewer 23 women want to marry. Those who do are less keen to have children. To cope with rapid ageing and an estimated one million dementia 24 sufferers by 2025, South Korea passed a dementia management law in 2011 mandating that citizens over 65 be checked for symptoms.
Japan
About 15,000 new Japanese citizens are naturalized annually 11 but more Japanese are leaving than arriving. Total population expected to fall below 100 million by 2044 and to decline to 79.97 million by 2060. The proportion of elderly was 25.2% 12 in 2013, expected to rise to 39.9% by 2060. In 2011 the country had more than 50,000 people aged 100 or more. Population 127,253,075 Growth rate 0.077% Sex ratio at birth 106 males: 100 females TFR 1.39 (per woman) Life expectancy at birth (male & female) 83.91 years Incentives Plus One Proposal introduced in 2009 to encourage families to have another child Family-friendly working conditions offered; 14 50,000 new day-care centres being built Monthly allowances of 13,000 yen (HK$1,020) per child began in 2010 Local authority and private sector shopping vouchers for larger families Officially sanctioned matchmaking websites Laws for maternity, paternity and child care leave, plus more 15 flexible and shorter working hours have been proposed. Effects, trends and problems Incentives lack legal enforcement and have insignificant effect. The average Japanese couple has sex 45 times a year, less than half the global average, according to a 2008 survey conducted 16 by Durex. More than 40% of men aged 35-39 still live with their parents. Many cite job instability and a culture of work for failure to meet potential marriage partners.
10
Philippines
The Philippines has one of the highest growth rates in Asia. While population growth has 17 declined slightly since 2008, the fertility rate is still well above replacement level. The Philippine Population Management Programme was launched in 1993 but in 2006 the Responsible Parenthood 18 Family Planning Programme advocated natural family planning without contraceptives. Population: 105,720,644 Growth rate 1.873% Sex ratio at birth 105 males: 100 females TFR 3.1 (per woman) Life expectancy at birth (male & female) 71.94 years Incentives There appear to be no incentives for women to have smaller families. In 2012 the government passed a bill to provide government funding for contraceptives and sex education classes but this law is challenged by the church. Effects, trends and problems Of 3.4 million pregnancies per annum, half are unintended and one third are aborted, often in clandestine, unsafe and unsanitary procedures. Some local governments have banned the sale of condoms and their distribution in health clinics. Population growth is driven 19 by poor households which cannot afford education or other basic needs for their children.
Sources See page 51 for a full list of sources used for this article. All figures on page 18-19 are from https://www.cia. gov/library/publications/ the-world-factbook unless otherwise footnoted.
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Youth views
by China Supertrends
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Youth views
bies gone?
Room for one more
There is also a widening discrepancy between the desired number of children and the actual number. In 2012, 39% of respondents said the number of children they had was fewer than they desired, compared to 26.3% in 2007. Only 56.1% had the number of children they wanted, marking a drop of almost 10% from 65.9% five years ago. A distinct gap between actual and ideal parity appeared for the first time since 1987. In 2007, of those married for less than five years, most had no children and of those married for 6-10 years, 50% had one child and 30% had two. The average ideal parity of the women polled increased to 1.67 in 2012 from the trough of 1.59 in 2007. The majority of respondents, (55.5% of women and 55.2% of men), set their ideal parity at two, representing a rise of about 5% from the survey five years ago. The proportion who desired one child remained about the same while those who desired no children fell by about 5%. On the other hand, respondents actual parity continued to decline over the past decade to reach 1.6 in 2002, 1.49 in 2007 and 1.24 in 2012. The majority of respondents who did not want children or only wanted one, said lack of money was their main reason, followed by being too old or not wanting the responsibility of raising children. If they already had one child they said that was enough. Women with better education tend to have better jobs and this has become another reason why they do not want children or want to have them later in life. Good jobs often mean long working hours. In 2007, 87% of the women had attained secondary or post secondary education and 51% worked full time. Interestingly, as household incomes rise the incidence of women who do not have children has increased. Of those who had monthly incomes of HK$30,000 or more in 2007, over a quarter had no children.
Lack of money was the main reason for not wanting [more] children, followed by being too old or not wanting the responsibility.
21
Youth views
by Strep
Both husbands and wives agreed that pressure of work, finances and household duties, limited living space, often shared with parents as well as any children, and having different work and life timetables were the major factors affecting their sex lives. Other than that, 23% or men and 15.8% of women cited health problems as hindering their sex lives. Only 23.8% enjoyed unworried sex.
50% of women polled said subsidies for education, medical services and housing would be effective incentives for them to have more children.
with one child or no children, but less so for those who already had two or more children, in the latest survey 40-50% of women polled said subsidies for education, medical services and housing would be effective incentives for them to have more children. Policy makers surely need to take heed of this message.
Notes and sources All information for this article comes from the FPAHK Surveys on Family Planning, Knowledge, Attitude and Practice. 2002, 2007, 2012. The 2012 survey interviewed 1,518 married/cohabitating women aged 15- 49, and 1,059 of their spouses/partners. In 2011, the median age of local women at first marriage was 28.9, the median age at first childbirth was 30.0. (Source: Census and Statistics Department, HKSAR).
22
Talking point
he combination of increased ageing and decreased fertility will result in a smaller workforce in Hong Kong over the next few decades. To boost it, to maintain quality and to increase productivity, economists and policymakers say that more people with skills and qualifications not available locally are needed.
by Elaine Morgan
by pennstatenews
There are several government schemes for the admission of well-qualified immigrants. The Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP)1 was implemented in 2003 to attract mainland professionals with skills, knowledge or experience of value who have no immediate prospective employment. The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)2, implemented in 2006, is also for those without a job offer. It is quota-based and accepts both mainland and overseas applicants, to enhance Hong Kongs manpower. The Immigration Arrangement for Nonlocal Graduates (IANG), has operated since 2008, specifically for those with overseas or mainland degrees. For immigrants offering professional skills and knowledge who have already secured an employment offer there is the General Employment Policy (GEP). This article looks at the first two schemes. The original intentions of QMAS, were to augment and rejuvenate an ageing population and to bring in talented people from outside Hong Kong to
meet manpower demands of local enterprises and to enhance Hong Kongs competitiveness in the global market. The UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand have taken such an approach, based on personal credentials and professional skills or the submission of a business plan for self-employment.3 QMAS makes an initial selection on the basis of financial resources, good character, proficiency in Chinese or English, and a first degree or equivalent technical qualification. Those who clear the initial hurdle are then scored on a General Points Test (see box on page 24) or an Achievement-based Points Test. The latter is for those who have exceptional talents or achievements. Admissions in the past have included Olympic athletes and acclaimed musicians. There is no list of desirable skills but applicants are asked to nominate a sector of the economy in which they believe they would make their best contribution. Successful applicants are usually given a 12-month visa and are invited to apply for an extension of stay if they have found work.
by cmaccubbin
23
Talking point
Summary of the QMAS General Points Test
Factors
1 Age (Maximum 30 points) 18-39 40-44 45-50 51 or above 2 Academic/Professional Qualifications (Maximum 45 points) Two or more Doctoral Degrees Doctoral Degree / Two or more Master Degrees Master Degree / Two or more Bachelor Degrees Bachelor Degree / Professional Qualification awarded by a nationally or internationally recognized or acclaimed professional body which demonstrates that the holder has a very high level of technical expertise or skill 3 Work Experience (Maximum 50 points) 10 or more years' graduate/specialist level work experience, including 5+ years in senior role 5 or more years' graduate/ specialist level work experience, including 2+ years in a senior role 5 or more years' graduate or specialist level work experience Not less than 2 years' graduate or specialist level work experience 4 Language Proficiency (Maximum 20 points) Proficiency in written and spoken Chinese (Putonghua or Cantonese) and English Proficiency in at least one foreign language (written and spoken) plus written and spoken Chinese (Putonghua or Cantonese) or English Proficiency in written and spoken Chinese (Putonghua or Cantonese) or English 5 Family Background (Maximum 20 points) 5.1 At least one immediate family member (spouse, parents, siblings, children) is a Hong Kong permanent resident residing in Hong Kong 5.2 Accompanying spouse educated to the equivalent level of a degree or above 5.3 5 points for each accompanying unmarried dependent child under 18, maximum 10 points Maximum 165 Points
sources http://www.immd.gov.hk/en/services/hk-visas/quality-migrant-admission/points-based-tests.html
Points 30 20 15 0
8,088 2011
8,105
(up 0.2% on 2011)
2012
45 40 35 30
academic research and education, arts and culture, and commerce and trade
No Quota Approval rate 80%+
50 40 30 10
by USACE HQ
20 15 10
The second scheme is for mainlanders exclusively and there is no quota. Called the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP) it was implemented in 2003 and is also intended to enhance Hong Kong's manpower resources. Applicants for both schemes must possess skills and knowledge not readily available or in short supply locally.
5 5 5 / 10
24
Talking point
QMAS facts and figures
Recent admissions Origin of applicants Mainland China
1,651 2011
1,834
(up 10% on 2011)
2012
77.6% 3.3%
each Approval rate
Other fields
1,000
27%+
(approx)
One of the key factors driving the economy forward is its open immigration policy. There is no denying that the open-door policy is a red hot political issue attracting criticism from the local community, but the reality is that it has worked to Singapores advantage.5
View of an employer
Today, countries around the world are waking up to the fact that highly-talented professionals and entrepreneurial investors are mobile. A countrys economic prosperity is inextricably linked to its immigration policy, a case in point being Singapore. Singapore has long been known as Hong Kongs key competitor in the region and has been steadily attracting investments, foreign capital and talented professionals.
Sources 1. http://www.immd.gov.hk/en/faq/admission-scheme-mainland-talents-professionals.html 2. http://www.immd.gov.hk/pdforms/id(e)982.pdf 3. http://www.legco.gov.hk/yr05-06/english/panels/se/papers/secb2-legcobrief-e.pdf 4. http://www.legco.gov.hk/yr12-13/english/sec/library/1213in04_20130320-e.pdf 5. http://www.guidemehongkong.com/story/doing-business/hk-immigration-schemes-attract-top-talent 6. Wong Kwan-nok. Department of Politics and Public Administration, University of Hong Kong Masters dissertation, 2011. http://hub.hku.hk/bitstream/10722/144131/3/FullText.pdf?accept=1
by Hung Ho Yu Photography
25
Youth speak
The younger people in this group are all at secondary school. The 20-30 somethings are all working in clerical or professional fields and included a mix of those who already had children or were expecting them, as well as those who had none yet, nor any immediate plans for child-rearing.
Sam It is my duty, both financially and emotionally. Susy my parents if they needed me, but if I couldnt
afford much they would understand. I could never forgive myself for not helping
ifteen young people, in their teens, 20s and early 30s, took part in a discussion on parents. Here are some of their views, doubts and hopes.
Yvonne me. My main reason for taking care of them is Mary parents only out of a sense of duty. I am
I dont think I would look after my
more than willing to help them and cant imagine ever finding it inconvenient. but I also know my children will be my priority. I have a debt to repay and I hope one my parents for looking after me.
Rob Of course I cannot neglect my mum and dad, Don day I will be able to make it up to
Anna Parents will always love us. They gave their whole
lives to take care of us. So we should do the same.
26
Youth speak
We asked whether they felt a moral obligation to look after ageing parents. All said they did and several also said their commitment came as much from love as from a sense of or duty. Others thought it was more a reciprocal responsibility that came from being looked after themselves as children. Filial piety is alive and strong in Hong Kong but commitment to elderly relatives can take second place if there are strong demands from offspring. Doubt creeps in when a parent has done little to contribute positively to a childs life or the child has suffered at the hands of a parent. Domestic disharmony of any kind also inevitably affects outlook, as does anxiety about creating a burden for the next generation. Some said they would only live together with parents if everybody in a multigenerational household got on well together. Some were also equivocal when asked whether they thought setting an example of being good to parents was an effective way to induce a sense of filial piety.
whatever they did or said I would always try to have enough money saved to look after myself. But in the end I doubt I would have enough. For me, it depends on whether I am thinking of my mother or my father. I would do my utmost to look after my mum, especially when she is old. But I dont feel any sense of duty towards my father. He has been irresponsible with both of us. We often disagree but I hope my relationship with my parents will improve over time. Nevertheless, I dont think they will change. I think I will have to change but I will do so to repay them. I believe that the way I treat my parents
Christine
look after my parents. I would be happy to contribute to a fully funded pension scheme. Some parents say they had children simply
Emma
when I am old but that doesnt mean I expect anything from them. Actually, I doubt I would want their help. I want to be independent and am prepared to look after myself. It would be hard for me to let someone else
going into residential care maybe I would go along with it even though I wouldnt want to. Im always arguing with my parents so if I had to
27
Youth speak
Ronald Tang, 16, is at St. Paul's Co-educational College. He lives in Tsuen Wan.
28
Youth speak
Protection of the Rights and Interests of the Aged which came into effect in December 2012. It includes a visiting requirement and a stipulation that employers approve the necessary leave for visits. The law enables the elderly to seek legal recourse and prohibits discrimination, insult, ill- treatment and abandonment. The local government of Qufu, Confucius hometown has a requirement whereby all citizens pay their parents a monthly allowance. This ranges from 60 Is it a good idea to make it a legal obligation for grown-up yuan (HK$76) for farmers to 200 yuan (HK$253) for government officials. They must also pay for parents to children to be responsible for the care of their parents? have a monthly haircut and an annual health check. We look at some countries where such law is enforced.
China http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/28/china-visit-aged-parents_n_2375122.html; South China Morning Post 22 April 2013 India http://www.helpageindiaprogramme.org/other/Brochures/Senior_Citizen_Act_Summary_Folder.pdf Singapore http://infopedia.nl.sg/articles/SIP_1614_2009-11-30.html
29
Go organic
at the HKFYG caf, shop and farm
ight in the heart of fashionable MidLevels, Organic 21, a new HKFYG youth social enterprise at 60 & 62B, Staunton Street, Central, is now open. If you like healthy, organic, natural foods, youll like this!
It was a real milestone when we opened the new shop and caf in Staunton Street last month. said manager, Cheryl. We are using fresh produce some of which comes from the HKFYG Organic Farm. I look after the shop which is stocked with high quality food and drinks from around the world. Menus change regularly but specialty dishes created by Chef Vince, a former Michelin restaurant star with a heart for the community, are a treat to behold. They taste as good as they look, with signature items based on the wonder grain quinoa. Vince explained, Working here means that I get to know the customers and can be involved in the community. I get to know people who come regularly because they like our food. Its so different from the Michelin restaurant where I spent 16 hours a day in the kitchen. The Organic 21 shop at Staunton Street gets over 85% of its produce from the US, certified USDA organic. Special, signature items include the coconut series made from wholesome, Philippines products. A delivery service is available.
Organic 21 Shop
Many organic and natural products Signature coconut series from the Philippines Gluten-free snacks Baby food series Fine sauces Health drinks
30
Chef Vince and manager Hong Manager Cheryl and assistant Suki arrange a display of stock
DELIVERIES AVAILABLE
31
Taking snapshots with your mobile phone or digital camera and uploading them on social media websites is popular today. But have you ever thought about what else you could do with your camera? Of course there are professional photographers out there who earn a living taking stunning photographs, but what can a student do with a camera? Last year, a Hong Kong university student called Michael started up a business on Nathan Road, Mong Kok. He sets up his booth every day after 4pm and takes instant photographs of passers-by with a classic Polaroid camera. On average, he takes around 300 photos each evening, charging only HK$20 for each. With the bustling background of Nathan Road, every one captures the unique taste of Hong Kong. Countless pairs of lovers, best friends, classmates, and even families have been to see him. What is the secret magic behind that Polaroid camera? Perhaps it is the vintage nostalgia of black and white photographs. Perhaps it is the street background that people fancy. Or perhaps it is simply the freshness of the idea. Whatever the reason, Michael is a perfect example of discovering your potential in something that fires your interest.
How could Michael have become so popular? Most of us could have done what he did. The answer comes in three Ps: passion, practice, and patience. Everyone has their own interests and talents, but not everybody has the courage to explore them to the full. Take Olympic athletes for example. How do they end up in sparkling stadiums representing their countries? Or prima ballerinas. How do they dance as if gravity does not exist? The first answer is practice. Practising not simply by following the same routine, but with patience, with no excuses, and without thinking they have reached their limits. We teenagers have creative young minds that will enable us to flourish, but are we brave enough to pursue our passion? The success of the student photographer in Mong Kok illustrates perfectly how important it is to be bold and brave. Everything is possible if we try.
by Tiffany Ip
32
Individual sports, have annual one-off tournaments. Golf, for example, has four Major Championships, the The first reason is the simple pleasure of spending time in Masters, the U.S. Open, the Open Championship and good company. Everything is more enjoyable when you the PGA Championship. These tournaments amount have a friend to do it with, even a boring maths lesson. to virtually everything a golf fan can watch in a whole This is the basic logic behind the popularity of team year. Now compare this to the Barclays Premier League sports: you practise, you win and you lose with friends. which runs from August to May. With 20 teams and their fanatic supporters, it has a whopping 380 games The in-jokes over that horribly failed free throw or per season, so there is always something to discuss or the shared laughter over that crazy referee make it argue about. That is why individual sports such as all worthwhile. Even if you just play casually, the golf do not build anything like the loyalty that team fun is still there. My friends and I play football on sports create through continuity and consistency. an oval of unkempt grass, using trees as goals with
cont'd
33
by fchmksfkcb
by Pradyumn Dayal
Year 9, German Swiss International School
34
*Source http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130505073740.htm
Internetscope
Multimodal multimedia
M
ultimedia was the focus of a recent issue of the HKFYG Journal of Youth Studies1 and online gaming was one of the foci. Selected publications exploring attitudes to and side effects of online games are reviewed here.
Many recent reports have focused on young peoples preoccupation with the internet, particularly online games. Some gamers play compulsively, to the exclusion of all else, and significant effects can include distress from withdrawal. As a result, the new edition of the primary diagnostic manual for psychiatric disorders 2 included Internet Gaming Disorder as a condition warranting more research.
Dr Huang also writes about the physical and psychological health risks of too much time at the computer, such as osteoarthritis in the shoulders and wrists. She mentions short-sightedness as a result of texting, spending a lot of time looking down and focusing on a small screen instead of looking into the distance. The risk of developing a compulsive need to be online, or Internet Addiction, a term introduced by Dr Ivan Goldberg (see box on page 36), is also discussed by Huang. Figure 1 shows how the time Taiwanese people spend online has been escalating.
Figure 1 Time on the internet in Taiwan
120 110 100 Minutes 90 80 70 60 Month
age 15-24 age 25-34 age 35-44 age 45-54 age 55+
D 01 2
J-2 0
11
J-2
Source ComScore Media Matrix, June 2012 In Journal of Youth Studies January 2013, Vol 16 (1) Serial no 31.
35
Internetscope
Figure 2 Youth's views on online games
11%
1% 2%
11%
41%
34%
actually disliked or even strongly disliked online games. Only 12% said they liked the games. In this survey, online games are defined as games that need software installed on computers. On average the 1524 year-olds spend nearly two hours a day playing them. The most popular, in order of preference, are shooting, role-play, sport, mahjong and education. About half of the respondents had negative views of online games, believing they were to blame for poor time management, bad moods and decreased performance. Figure 3 also shows that about 30% of the young players find playing games online for a long period exciting. About 20% of the young players agreed that they would become depressed or irritated if they cut down their online gaming time and had tried to do so but had failed. Overall, the findings reveal that young players do not find online games as evil as the general public would suppose. They also want teachers, parents and other adults to understand the reasons why young people as a whole rather like them. Much literature on this subject stems from evidence in Asia and centres on young men. Some studies suggest that pathways in the brain can be triggered by online gaming in the same way as a drug addicts brain is affected by substance abuse. These prompt a neurological response that influences feelings of pleasure and reward. The extreme result is manifested as addictive behaviour.
Anonymous attraction
A recent survey, organized by Professor Anthony YH Fung of the Chinese University of Hong Kong gives data on online gaming. Some of the statistics are cited in his article in the Journal of Youth Studies.4 Like Dr Huang, Professor Fung suggests that the attraction lies in the interactivity and anonymity of the games. Much more complex than the early computer games, they offer an escape from the real world and its problems. Young players dont think they will become addicted, but the games can act as a trigger to compulsive use.
36
Figure 2 has data from Professor Fungs 2011 survey5 which showed that over 40% of the young respondents
Internetscope
Figure 3 Young online game players self-assessment
I get excited when I play online games for a long time I carry on thinking about the game when I go offline I get depressed or irritated if I cut down on online games I try to cut down but have failed I lie to my family and friends about how long I play
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%
Source Journal of Youth Studies January 2013, Vol 16 (1) Serial no 31.
37
Internetscope
Khan Academy
education for
by eclectic echoes
anyone, anywhere
In 2004, Salman Khan started making Youtube videos to help his cousins with their homework. Today, he helps over ten million students around the world with theirs. The Khan Academy was conceived by Salman Khan in 2006 with the mission of "providing a high quality education for anyone, anywhere. You may be wondering how one can quantify the effect that Khan Academy has had globally. Here are a few statistics for you:
Khan Academy videos have been viewed over 200 million times in the past 2 years 6 million students currently used it each month 750 million questions have been solved by them Users ask about fifteen questions a second This content is part of about 20,000 classrooms worldwide Khan Academy videos have been translated into 24 languages.
For me, it is an addition to the classes I attend as a university student. However, for many, it is the only form of education they get. As such, it has the potential to break down barriers to obtaining education. Now anyone, anywhere in the world can access this large database of information and be on a par with the best students in Harvard or MIT. The concept behind the Khan Academy allows students to progress in terms of their own intellectual development. This means that a ten year old could be learning the same as a sixteen year old. One example of this is Matthew Carpenter, a ten year-old who uses Khan Academy to solve inverse trigonometric functions: a topic that is not taught till the tenth grade of school. The site automatically directs students to new topics that they can move on to and gives suggestions for exercises and other topics under the same umbrella. Everyone knows that one-to-one tutoring is more effective than sitting in a classroom with a thousand students and Khan Academy gives students a platform to engage in one-to-one tutorials without the hefty fees of private tutors. The potential of Khan Academy to harness the talent of the internet generation is immense. This is what has drawn such bountiful funding from sources such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Google. The widespread use of the online platform means that Sals familiar baritone voice is now part of many households around the world.
The Khan Academy began an education revolution by using the most important tool to engage todays generation: the internet. Though critics argue that Khan Academy leaves children staring at their screens, devoid of interaction or engaged learning, as a user I feel that the animated voice of Salman with the neon scribbling and the opportunity to pause and repeat what I dont understand, really does give this site an edge over classroom learning. Not only does it give me an opportunity to learn in a way I find comfortable but it also provides practice questions and tests to follow up on.
by Kanika Bali
38
Internetscope
The Khan Academy is a not-for-profit educational website created in 2006 by Bangladeshi American educator Salman Khan, whose Indian mother is from Kolkata and whose Bangladeshi father is from Barisa. Khan graduated from MIT and Harvard Business School. The website supplies a free online collection of over 4,000 YouTube video tutorials, most of which are conducted by the quirky 37 yearold himself, using a Wacom tablet computer as a teaching aid. Offline versions of the videos have also been distributed by notfor-profit groups to rural areas in Asia, Latin America, and Africa. I have been using Khan Acdemy for a year and it is extremely helpful. I think I have improved in maths by using it at home. It helps me build on what I ve learnt in class, review lessons from previous years and see how to work out problems when I am stuck. I also like seeing the answers after doing a sum and moving up a level when Im ready. However, if I dont understand the video, there is nobody to explain it. It is quite an isolated way to learn. Still, I would recommended Khan Academy to anyone who wants to improve their maths or play for the love of the subject!
Do you or your students use Khan Academy? Tell us what you think of it by sending feedback to youthhongkong@hkfyg.org.hk
by Sixth Lie
39
City space
WEEE
S
ince 2003, St. James Settlement (SJS) has been cooperating with the Environmental Protection Department to launch the WEEE (Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment) Recovery and Recycling Pilot Programme. The service expanded in 2010 with the support of the Environment and Conservation Fund (ECF). We visited a comprehensive, 50,000 square foot WEEE Recycling Centre at Eco Park Phase II in Tuen Mun to look at progress.
GO Green
by HKFYG's Kevin Chan (Environment Officer) and Ada Chau (Development Officer) The SJS WEEE Go Green Recycling Centre
Ecopark in Tuen Mun The vision of SJS is to promote a new green culture of WEEE recycling and proper disposal of recycled items to help the needy. Through donations and refurbishment, discarded appliances no longer of use to their original owners can be regenerated to benefit the needy. Seasonal patterns and needs are reflected in the kinds of WEEE collected at different times of year. SJS receives relatively large numbers of fans during winter time, but lots of stoves are collected during summer. All items donated to WEEE are inspected by Body Check workers and classified as functional WEEE and non-usable WEEE.
40
City space
Around 300 refurbished appliances including refrigerators, washing machines and TVs have been delivered by CLP Power Hong Kong volunteers for the benefit of 150 needy families. When one woman got a CRT TV, she told SJS that she hadnt been able to watch TV at home for a year because she could not afford a TV. Some large corporations, like Siemens, provide training for SJS electrical workers who need to learn how to repair and maintain Siemens' appliances.
41
City space
Non-usable WEEE: dismantling and recycling
Dismantling material for recovery and recycling is essential to maximize resources. 5 main steps are followed: 1. Removal of external casing, enclosure and components 2. Removal of cables, and shredding of stranded cables 3. Removal of hazardous chemicals 4. Disassembly of major components 5. Value-added processing and sorting Basically, all parts and components of the appliances can be recycled, including plastic, ferrous metal, copper, aluminum and steel, printed circuit boards, motors, transformers, compressors and cables. The value of some components such as the copper powder is much higher after shredding and separating of cable strands. All these recyclable materials are sold to appropriate local or overseas recyclers for manufacturing.
Recycling Old Computers: The WEEE Go Green centre does not have a safe and efficient solution, especially for hard discs. Therefore, they send all old computers they collect to another centre to permanently remove the computer data with a high technology degaussing machine.
42
City Space
WEEE Go Green Education Centre
An Education Centre sponsored by CLP Power Hong Kong provides smart tips on electricity usage and better ways to recycle WEEE. Other companies, schools and community bodies are welcome to visit. By taking a tour, visitors can understand better the importance of handling WEEE well and spread the message of WEEE recycling.
If you have WEEE items you would like to recycle, you can take them to any of our 20 Youth SPOT Collection Points or other SJS Collection Points. Please visit http://weeegogreen.sjs.org.hk and http://gogreen.hkfyg.org.hk/ for more information.
43
HKFYG
he Federation has many activities for young people this summer. There are the leadership programmes, HK200 and the Summer School for Effective Leadership and there is the Summer Youth Programme, sizzling with 4,500 fun, absorbing activities for children and youth at a loose end during the vacation.
Summer Childcare
Relief child day care for families with working parents is an essential service and will become even more important as Hong Kongs workforce shrinks. HKFYG offers such services all year round and this summer programme provides further back-up during the school holidays, a crunch time for mothers and fathers.
Dates Saturday Sunday 27-28 July Venue HKFYG Jockey Club Sai Kung Outdoor Training Camp Cost HK$450 includes overnight at the camp, meals and transport Age group 14-25 year-olds Quota 120 Activities
Classes with famous teachers on Hip Hop, Jazz Funk, Popping, House, and Urban Dance Dance appreciation sessions with HKFYGs Project Dance Studio and local dance troupes A finale dance party to let your hair down
Dates Monday Friday 15 July till 30 August, 2pm-6pm Venue HKFYG Jockey Club Kwai Fong Youth SPOT Cost HK$2,300 Quota 16 children Age group 6-12 year-olds Activities
Visits to Legco, a riding school, the Hong Kong Railway Museum and a day camp Daily homework tutoring in Chinese, English, Mathematics, Liberal Studies Communication skills, speech skills and learning about team spirit Sports for all-round development Parent child progress meetings Crafts including making photo frames, wind bells and sand bottles
Dates 2 & 3 August, 9 August, 24 August Venues HKFYG Jockey Club Wang Tau Hom Youth SPOT, Central and Sheung Wan, Lamma Youth Camp Cost HK$ 180, includes overnight at the camp, meals and transport Age group 14-24 year-olds Quota 16 Activities
Overnight camp on Lamma Island: Friday 3pm- Saturday 3pm 2-3 August Experience Day: Friday 9 August 10am-6pm Volunteer Day: Saturday 24 August 2pm-6pm
Contact Terrence Zee, HKFYG Jockey Club Farm Road Youth SPOT tel 2715 0424 email terrence.zee@hkfyg.org.hk
Please note Families in need of financial support are welcome to apply for discounts Contact Yu Fan, HKFYG Jockey Club Kwai Fong Youth SPOT tel 2423 1366 email kfit@hkfyg.org.hk
Contact Lily Tse, HKFYG Jockey Club Wang Tau Hom Youth SPOT tel 2337 7189 email lily.tse@hkfyg.org.hk
44
HKFYG
Dates 4-8 August (tentative) Location Guangzhou City Quota Approximately 200 Activities
Teaching migrant workers' children Exchange with local student Visits to heritage sites and government officials
Contact Leadership 21 tel 2169 0255 email leadership21@hkfyg.org.hk More information at http://leadership21.hkfyg.org.hk
Please note
Participants in financial need may apply for a full fee waiver via their nominee Full attendance is mandatory for the 10-day-9-night programme with shared-room accommodation at a university dormitory
Contacts General Education Unit, HKU tel 2241 5044 email gened@hku.hk Leadership 21, tel 2169 0255 email leadership21@hkfyg.org.hk http://gened.hku.hk/ssel2013
45
HKFYG
Back to 1942
A Battle of Wits
3 July 2013 2.30pm 9/F, Auditorium, HKFYG Building, 21 Pak Fuk Road, North Point 420 seats Running time 146 minutes Language Mandarin, English, Japanese Seminar The Relationship between movies, culture and heritage Speaker Dr. Tam King-fai, Associate Professor, Department of Chinese Culture, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Directed by Feng Xiaogang and starring Zhang Guoli, Chen Daoming and Li Xuejian, this film is based on a novel by Liu Zhenyun who also wrote the screenplay. Set during the Second Sino-Japanese War at the time of a major famine in Henan, it explores themes of government corruption, tragedy and treachery. This surprise film at the 2012 International Rome Film Festival has been described by The Guardian as a big populist spectacle...that gives us history written in banner headlines and trumpeted by bugles.
4 July 2013 2.30pm 9/F, Auditorium, HKFYG Building, 21 Pak Fuk Road, North Point 420 seats Running time 133 minutes Language Mandarin Seminar From movies to Chinese philosophy Speaker Professor Cheng Chung-yi, Department of Philosophy, The Chinese University of Hong Kong Directed and produced by Hong Kongs Jacob Cheung, and starring Andy Lau, Ahn Sung-ki and Wang Zhiwen, this 2006 film that is also known as Battle of the Warriors is based on a Japanese historical novel and manga series, Bokko. Set in 370BC during the Warring States period it carries a strong anti-war and humanist message. It was a joint production of mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea.
o celebrate China Week, from 3 till 9 July, HKFYG is holding a festival of Chinese films in the hope that it will encourage youth to understand Chinese history and culture better.
The earliest Chinese movie was made about 100 years ago. Today, the Federation hopes that young people can learn from and appreciate the evolution of this popular art form while gaining a deeper understanding of the history and culture that lies behind the films being shown during China Week 2013.
After the movies, there will be seminars with guest speakers. This will give the student audience a chance to exchange ideas about the meaning of the movies, the philosophy behind them and the concepts they embody.
With thanks from organizer HKFYG to Co-organizer: Southern Film Company Limited Supporting Organizations CNEX Foundation Limited Lee Hysan Foundation Emperor Movies Limited Sundream Motion Pictures Limited
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HKFYG
The Grandmaster
My Way
5 July 2013 2.30pm HKFYG Jockey Club Media 21 LG2/F, Shek Pai Wan Shopping Centre, Aberdeen 260 seats Running time 107 minutes Language Mandarin Seminar From movies to Chinese ethics and humanities Speaker Dr. Lo Wai-luk, Associate Professor, School of Communication, The Hong Kong Baptist University Directed by Zhang Meng and starring Qin Hailu and Wang Qianyuan, this 2010 mainland Chinese drama tells the story of a fathers wish to realize his daughters dream of owning a piano. Set in the 1990s, it reveals how optimism can triumph over adversity when the father and his friends build a piano made of steel.
8 July 2013 2.30pm HKFYG Jockey Club Media 21 LG2/F, Shek Pai Wan Shopping Centre, Aberdeen 260 seats Running time 130 minutes Language Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese Seminar From movies to Chinese chivalry Speaker Dr. Chun Chun-fai, Scholar of wuxia novels of Jin Yong Directed by Wong Kar-wai and starring Tony Leung, Zhang Ziyi and Chang Chen, this Hong Kong martial arts drama chronicles the life of the Wing Chun grandmaster, Ip Man. Beginning in 1930s Foshan, it includes his flight to Hong Kong after the Second Sino-Japanese War, and the events leading to his death in the 1970s. Variety magazine reviewed it as a 1930s action saga ... [with] ...one of the most propulsive yet ethereal realizations of authentic martial arts on screen. It has been a box office hit and is Wong Kar-wais highest grossing film to date.
9 July 2013 2.30pm 9/F, Auditorium, HKFYG Building, 21 Pak Fuk Road, North Point 420 seats Running time 72 minutes Language Cantonese Seminar From movies to Chinese Traditional Arts Speaker Ms Tang Yuen-ha, Founder & Artistic Director of the Jingkun Theatre Directed by Cheuk Cheung and starring Tam Wing-lun and Wong Hau-wai, this Hong Kong film is about ten years in the lives of two young men. Both are passionate Cantonese Opera actors and both initially choose to play female characters, a traditional role neglected today. With perseverance, they succeed against the odds. Although one of them eventually begins to play male roles, their longlasting friendship remains unchanged.
Kick off Ceremony Date: Wednesday 3 July 2013 Time: 2.30pm Venue: 9/F Auditorium, HKFYG Building
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HKFYG
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Further reading
Integrity: Micro Movie Production One2free Road Safety app competition and training
Sally Ching is the lead contact for this mobile game app competition, judged by Dr Hubert Chan and Mr Tony Hau of the Communications Association of Hong Kong (CAHK) and Mr Ricky Chong, Director, Product & Services/Marketing, CSL. The competition is being followed by mentored, in-depth training on app development. Run in collaboration with the CAHK and the Office of the Communications Authority, the training takes place from June to August. Sally told us about the finalists* in the competition. They are students in secondary education and M21 has appointed professional app developers from LogicToken Co Ltd and Aspiring Technologies Ltd to teach them about the concepts. The winners will be very excited because they have the chance to showcase their apps at the CAHK 30th Anniversary Ceremony in October. *Finalists in the one2free app competition Champions
Name: School: Or Ka-bo, Cheung Cheuk-nam, Ling Ka-hong Po Leung Kuk, Mrs Ma Kam MingCheung Fook Sien College
The ICAC (Independent Commission Against Corruption) is funding this scheme , says CK Chow, the programme anchor. Its running till the end of 2013 at the HKFYG Jockey Club M21 Media Centre. Top shortlisted entries will get sponsorship of up to HK$20,000 each for their micro movie production. The emphasis of this project, supported by the ICAC, is on creativity and production experience. Selection criteria include quality of scripts and proposals and the impact of the micro movies message about integrity. Contact CK Chow tel 3979 0040 email ck.chow@hkfyg.org.hk
First Runners Up Name: Tsoi Ying-tung, Hui Ka-wai, Sham Yuk-wah, Lee Kai-kuen School: Man Kiu College Second Runner Up Name: Kwong Ka-wai School: Pak Kau College
*These are just some of the activities taking place at the HKFYG Jockey Club M21, Unit No.2, LG2/F, Shek Pai Wan Shopping Centre, Shek Pai Wan Estate, Aberdeen, Hong Kong. For full information go to www.m21.hk
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Perspectives
his page carries news and views on topics recently covered in Youth Hong Kong. This time it is about poverty, the theme of the March issue and trying to integrate as a young mainlander. You are most welcome to share your perspective with us.
Teachers in Cambodia earn less than US$100 per month. Needless to say, social services are almost non-existent. PSE allows its beneficiary kids to find a job straight after school. This way they escape from a cycle of misery. I think this is the best criterion for evaluating the efficacy of such an NGO. Martin Sebaux Repulse Bay
Ed: According to Index Mundi, http://www.indexmundi.com/cambodia/population_ below_poverty_line.html in Cambodia, 31%* of the people are below the poverty line.
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Further reading
Sources from several articles in this issue, plus further reading on population policy, are listed here. For full details of other sources please contact the editor, email youthhongkong@hkfyg.org.hk. Population policy in Hong Kong, mainland China and overseas
pages 6-8 Census & Statistics Department, HKSARG. Hong Kong Population Projections 2012-2041; Women and Men in Hong Kong: key statistics (2012); 2011 Population Census: graphic guide. (2012) Steering Committee on Population Policy. Progress Report 2012. Family Planning Association of Hong Kong. Reports on the Survey of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice. 2007 and 2012. Hong Kongs Population Policy. Legislative Council Secretariat Information Note. March 2013. pages 16-17 Statistics are from the Hong Kong SAR Government Census and Statistics Department (CSD), the Central Intelligence Agency World Factbook, or courtesy of Professor Richard Wong Yue-chim, unless otherwise footnoted. CSD statistics refer to 2011, the latest year available, or projections. 1 http://www.swd.gov.hk/doc/elderly/ERCS/List%20 of%20RCH%20item(a)(31-12-2012)2.pdf 2 http://www.gov.hk/en/residents/housing/publichousing/elderlyhousing.htm 3 http://www.gov.hk/en/residents/taxes/salaries/allowances/allowances/allowances.htm 4 http://www.gendercide.org/case_infanticide.html pages 18-19 1 http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2005/sep/22/france.jonhenley1 2 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France#Demographics 3 http://www.docstoc.com/docs/125011213/Population-Policy-Pro-natalist-in-France 4 http://www.oecd.org/els/emp/Older%20Workers%20France.pdf 5 http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-202_162-57448389/franceto-lower-retirement-age-to-60-for-some/ 6 http://populationcommission.nic.in/npp.htm 7 http://www.2point6billion.com/news/2010/08/23/india-offeringcash-incentives-to-control-birthrates-6816.html 8 http://www.icrw.org/media/news/motivation-prevent-child-marriage 9 http://ppdsec.wordpress.com/2011/03/04/is-indiamoving-towards-population-stabilization/ 10 http://populationcommission.nic.in/npp.htm 11 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immigration#JapanS 12 http://www.ipss.go.jp/site-ad/index_english/esuikei/gh2401e.asp 13 http://www.ipss.go.jp/site-ad/index_english/esuikei/gh2401e.asp 14 http://www.newstatesman.com/asia/2009/03/japan-population-growth 15 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aging_of_Japan#Government_policies 16 http://www.durexnetwork.org/SiteCollectionDocuments/ Research%20-%20Face%20of%20Global%20Sex%202008.pdf 17 http://www.indexmundi.com/g/g.aspx?c=rp&v=24 18 http://www.consciencelaws.org/law/commentary/legal055-002.aspx 19 http://business.inquirer.net/46549/growing-population-a-boonor-a-drag-to-a-more-developed-philippines-by-2050 20 http://www.eastwestcenter.org/fileadmin/stored/pdfs/POPop123.pdf 21 http://www.prb.org/Articles/2010/koreafertility.aspx 22 http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-02-13/south-koreascours-himalayas-for-staff-as-population-ages.html 23 Ministry for Health, Welfare, and Family Affairs, The Basic Plan on Aging Society and Population of Korea (Seoul: Ministry for Health, Welfare, and Family Affairs, 2010). 24 http://www.npr.org/2013/01/04/168615553/south-koreaprepares-the-young-for-a-rapidly-aging-population 24 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Population_control_in_Singapore 26 http://population.sg/ 27 http://news.xin.msn.com/en/singapore/singapores-totalfertility-rate-sees-slight-improvement-1 28 http://www.heybaby.sg/summaryofmeasures.html 29 http://news.xin.msn.com/en/singapore/singapores-totalfertility-rate-sees-slight-improvement-1 30 http://www.sgplan.com/sgPlan-library/others/aging-population-in-singapore 31 http://app.msf.gov.sg/Portals/0/Summary/research/CAI_report.pdf 32 http://www.migrationobservatory.ox.ac.uk/sites/files/migobs/Public%20 Opinion-Overall%20Attitudes%20and%20Level%20of%20Concern.pdf 33 http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1388472/UK-immigrationboosted-population-1-75m-8-years.html#ixzz2RNLhhkBC 34 http://www.21stcenturychallenges.org/focus/britains-greying-population/
March 2012
Volume 4 Number 1
June 2012
Volume 4 Number 2
September 2012
Volume 4 Number 3
December 2012
Volume 4 Number 4
Youth
HONG KONG
Youth
HONG KONG
Youth
HONG KONG
Youth
HONG KONG
Job hunting
Real choice
or limited options
YOUTH SPEAK Earning, prospects, ful lment INTERVIEWS Herman Chan Careers and Placement at HKU Stanley Ng Choosing paths, changing tracks Virginia Choi Matching expectations YOUTH WATCH Statistics on money and careers FEATURES Kara Chan on consumerism
Advertise in Youth Hong Kong, the magazine for all who are interested in young people. Visit youthhongkong.hkfyg.org.hk for full details.
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Youth Hong Kong: 21/F, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups Building, 21 Pak Fuk Road, North Point, Hong Kong Tel : 3755 70843755 7108Fax : 3755 7155Email : youthhongkong@hkfyg.org.hkyouthhongkong.hkfyg.org.hk The title of this journal in Chinese is Xiang Gang Qing Nian