Speaking up on youth affairs
THE recently published Charter for Youth is making room for individuals to voice their views: it will carry an individual subscriber system.
The charter, a document prepared by the Commission on Youth, lays down principles and ideals to aid the ''healthy development'' of Hongkong's young people.
''We did not expect individual participation when we released the draft for public consultation,'' said the Commission on Youth chairman, Mr Eric Li Ka-cheung, at a recent press conference.
However, comments received during the consultation showed that many people, especially youngsters, wanted a channel to express their views.
Forms for individual subscribers will soon be available at district offices, Mr Li said.
Although the commission cannot arrange for all individual subscribers to take part in the conference held every two years to review youth development, Mr Li said that, as subscribers, ''their views could be submitted directly to the commission or throughother agencies, and that their opinions would be taken into account.'' The document will also carry new statements regarding respect for others and responsibilities to society expected of young people.
Many young people contacted by the commission felt the charter should say something about what they could do, Mr Li said.
One area singled out for special attention was Chinese culture awareness. Mr Li said the Commission of Youth survey revealed a sorry lack of familiarity with Chinese affairs.
''They should get to know more about Chinese culture because of the special circumstances of Hongkong,'' Mr Li said.
The Government has agreed to take the lead by becoming the first subscriber to the charter. Mr Li said that this should encourage enthusiastic support from youth organisations, educational bodies, district boards and young people.
''Organisations may need time to consider the charter contents in detail,'' he added. ''The Commission plans to hold a subscription ceremony in summer to mark the formal launching of the charter.'' The charter is not a legal document but serves as a reference for youth concern groups and the Government in planning services and policies. ''The charter is a community asset,'' Mr Li pointed out. ''The Government and the entire community - organisations, individuals, parents and schools - will work together for the same goal.'' The Charter for Youth is in three parts. The first presents the principles and ideals of youth development, while the second sets out the rights of youth in the light of these principles and ideals. Long-term social goals for youth development are presented in the final section.
Copies of the charter will be available next month.
