Chance to build a solid future
YOUNG people interested in a bright career in the construction industry should go through formal and proper training programmes.
Mr Albert Tong Yat-chu, the executive director of the Construction Industry Training Authority (CITA), reassured young people that they had a promising future in the industry.
He also emphasised the importance of construction safety in a speech to mark the 18th anniversary celebration of CITA.
CITA, set up in 1975, is aimed at establishing and maintaining industrial training centres and providing training courses in construction.
Its three training centres are located in Aberdeen, Kowloon Bay and Kwai Chung and the fourth in Sheung Shui is under construction and is expected to be ready by next year.
There is a variety of full-time courses for teenage school-leavers who want to be craftsmen and technicians/supervisors.
Adults who work in other areas but wish to join the industry can take short courses provided by the authority.
Part-time courses are designed for in-service construction personnel who require re-training or wish to enhance their skills and knowledge.
''The construction industry is prospering.
''Young people who have received comprehensive training are going to have a bright future,'' said CITA chairman Chan Ka-kui.
Mr Tong, however, emphasised that a law prohibiting teenagers under 18 from working at construction sites did not apply to CITA students as they were given proper training at the centre.
''They are familiar with the skills, knowledge and safety measures required, so the ban does not apply to them.''
