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Reflecting the growing interest in Hong Kong’s burgeoning digital economy and innovation sector, the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), in collaboration with the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB), has successfully concluded this year’s Youth Start-up Internship Programme (YSIP), which saw a remarkable 45% increase in job applications compared to the previous year.
Nearly 1,000 aspiring young professionals applied for the 100 available internship positions, demonstrating significant enthusiasm for Hong Kong’s dynamic innovation and technology (I&T) sector. This high level of interest underscores the growing appeal of Hong Kong’s I&T landscape and its potential to attract top talent.
Alice Mak, Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs highlighted the programme’s role in connecting young talent with the start-up ecosystem. “YSIP offers students valuable insights into start-up operations and the broader entrepreneurship environment in Hong Kong. The enthusiasm and creativity of our youth are vital for advancing our I&T industry. By nurturing these talents, YSIP fosters a win-win scenario for both the young participants and the sector.”
Aldous Mak, CFO of HKSTP, praised the programme’s impact. “This year’s YSIP has been an extraordinary experience for both the interns and their host companies. The enthusiasm and innovation demonstrated by these young talents are inspiring. YSIP is central to our strategy for revitalising the local I&T sector, providing fresh minds to drive technological progress both locally and internationally.”
This year’s YSIP saw participation from around 60 Park Companies spanning fields such as AI, green tech, and biotechnology. Interns engaged in a variety of activities, including personal development workshops, design thinking sessions, and networking events. They also visited significant tech hubs like the Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch and major industry players such as BYD, deepening their understanding of regional technological integration.
A visit to SenseTime offered insights into cutting-edge smart city applications, while a tour of HKSTP’s Tseung Kwan O InnoPark showcased advancements in digital transformation and manufacturing.
YSIP provides full-time students from local tertiary or post-secondary institutions, aged 18 to 30, with 3 to 6-month internships at start-ups within the Science Park. Each position comes with a salary subsidy of up to HK$11,200 per month, funded by the Government.
Timothy Adesanya, a Physics and Green Energy student from Nigeria at Hong Kong Baptist University, interned at LeafIoT Technology Limited, a start-up concentrating on urban tree management using IoT, AI, and blockchain.
“YSIP challenged my career preconceptions and expanded my professional network,” Adesanya noted. “It has prepared me for a promising career in Hong Kong’s I&T sector and equipped me with skills to address energy and infrastructure challenges in Nigeria.”
Herman Chan Pak Kwan, Managing Director at LeafIoT, commended YSIP for its role in talent development. “The workshops have transformed Timothy from a novice into a key team member, now ready for full-time employment. YSIP is an excellent platform for startups to train and develop talent with strong support from the government and HKSTP.”
Similarly, Alicia Cheung, a recent graduate in aviation engineering from Hong Kong Polytechnic University, was inspired by her internship at LifeSparrow Solutions Limited, a start-up specialising in AI-driven drone technology for search and rescue operations.
“The exposure to HKSTP’s dynamic environment shifted my career focus towards enhancing aviation technology,” Cheung said.
Jerry Ng, Chief Marketing Officer of LifeSparrow, highlighted the benefits of YSIP for both interns and companies. “Alicia’s fresh ideas and the entrepreneurial culture at HKSTP have reinforced her desire to pursue a future in the I&T sector. YSIP brings valuable new perspectives to our team.”
The YSIP continues to play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of I&T leaders, showcasing Hong Kong’s commitment to fostering innovation and career development in the tech sector.
