Chief Secretary Eric Chan on Tuesday said underprivileged students who are taking part in a government mentorship scheme in Hangzhou have been able to learn a lot about Chinese culture.

The minister is leading a delegation taking some 80 teenagers to the mainland city, as part of the Strive and Rise Programme.

Speaking after a museum visit, Chan told reporters the teenagers he spoke to have become more confident and pro-active.

"Last year we began by organising five tours, and the reaction was quite good. Students who joined were all very happy. This year we've increased to 18 tours," he said.

"Going forward, we want to encourage more enterprises and partners to offer us more sponsorships, so we can organise more of these activities that allow children to go on trips and learn more about the country."

The minister added it's important for the students to gain knowledge from their mentors.

Olympic fencing gold medallist Vivian Kong, who retired right after her victory at the Paris Games to join the Jockey Club, is also part of the delegation.

The Strive and Rise Programme was introduced in Chief Executive John Lee's maiden policy address in 2022.