Cadets clear obstacles
A recipient of a Hong Kong Adventure Corps (HKAC) scholarship said that her experiences in the uniformed youth organisation had changed her for the better.
'I have become more confident after doing things I didn't think I could, like the three-kilometre runs. After that, I think I can do anything,' said 21-year-old Li Yuk-man, who has already started her studies in food and nutrition at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Other award recipients are Ng Siu-fun, 19, Chan Wai-ki, 20, Lee Wing-hang, 20, and Li Yuk-man, 21.
The scholarship scheme was set up to enable promising cadets to complete their university education and encourage them to join the HKAC as volunteer instructors in the future.
Deputy Commander Matthew Wong Wai-man, who guided the latest batch of youngsters through the various training courses and activities, said the HKAC helped young people enhance their endurance, both physically and mentally.
'The idea is for these cadets to take over from us eventually. We're getting old!' said Mr Wong.
The HKAC aims to assist boys and girls aged 12-18 develop their character and leadership potential, while emphasising the importance of serving the community.
HKAC chairman Vivien Chan said since the organisation was set up in September 1995, the number of cadets receiving training had increased from nine to more than 1,600 this year.
'Our biggest problem, apart from finding the money to fund our training activities, is the shortage of suitable volunteer instructors to run the programmes,' she said.
'It is against this background that we started to develop the concept of the corporate-sponsored scholarship scheme earlier this year.'
