A think tank focusing on youth issues said on Friday the Greater Bay Area Youth Employment Scheme has been a success, and allowed its young participants to learn more about Greater Bay cities.

The Greater Bay Area Youth Employment Scheme was launched by the government in 2021. It encouraged employers to send local graduates to work in GBA cities for 18 months with a monthly salary of at least HK$18,000.

Think tank MWYO, along with the General Chamber of Commerce, conducted a study to evaluate the impact of the scheme. Its third phase was held between November and December and surveyed 70 workers and 13 employers.

The group said nearly all employees who participated in the scheme said they felt positive about the experience, and that it had met their expectations.

David Lai, the organisation’s deputy research director, commended the scheme.

“Many companies decided to offer new contracts to the employees and also, the employees think they have [made] great improvements,” he said.

He added that the experience from working in GBA cities could help participants find better jobs in Hong Kong.

Cynthia Lam, the human resources director of one of the participating employers, CLP, described the scheme as a "win-win" situation for both the employer and employee.

She said that students have received opportunities for training, employment, and advancement, while their employers have gained access to a larger pool of talents for future development on the mainland.