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The Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies (HKIAPS) of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and the National Academy of Chinese Modernization of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) recently jointly organised the “Symposium on Chinese Modernisation and Youth Development” at the CUHK Shenzhen Research Institute. The Symposium brought together over 20 experts and scholars to exchange ideas on topics including Chinese modernisation and youth employment in Hong Kong, community engagement and personal development of Hong Kong youth. It aimed to provide new perspectives on youth development in Hong Kong and contribute to the advancement of Chinese modernisation.

At the opening ceremony, Professor Zhang Yi, Director of the National Academy of Chinese Modernization of CASS, delivered an online speech emphasising the pivotal role of youth development in driving Chinese modernisation. He outlined five key aspects of youth modernisation: focuses on knowledge, global development, future development, new productive forces and taking on national responsibilities. Professor Yam Yeung, Director of the CUHK Shenzhen Research Institute, said he expected that the Symposium would provide valuable insights and recommendations for promoting youth development. Professor Anthony Fung Ying-him, Director of HKIAPS and Dean of Social Science of CUHK, added that the Symposium would serve as a platform to provide policy recommendations, foster collaboration across sectors, and create more opportunities for young people.

The Symposium addressed key national development strategies and Hong Kong’s social issues. During the panel discussions, experts and scholars delved into the following topics:

• Chinese modernisation and youth employment in Hong Kong: Experts noted that Hong Kong, as an important gateway city to China, offers ample employment opportunities for young people. However, there is need to enhance their professional skills and innovative capabilities to meet the demands of emerging industries.
• Community engagement of Hong Kong youth: Experts stressed that Hong Kong youth should be more actively involved in community building, enhancing their social responsibility and civic awareness.
• Personal development of Hong Kong youth: Experts explored the opportunities and challenges faced by Hong Kong youth under globalisation,and discussed strategies to facilitate their holistic development.

The Symposium facilitated forward-looking and constructive discussions, with experts providing valuable insights for the integration of Chinese modernisation and youth development. After the symposium concluded, a round-table discussion was held, where scholars shared insights on operation at the community level in Hong Kong. As a bridge connecting Hong Kong and Shenzhen, the CUHK Shenzhen Research Institute has attracted diverse talent through supporting research teams and organising academic activities, contributing to in-depth cooperation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen in education, research and social development.