VTC warmly welcomes initiatives in Policy Address to support VPET development

The Vocational Training Council (VTC) warmly welcomes the initiatives in supporting the Vocational and Professional Education and Training (VPET) promulgated in the Chief Executive’s 2025 Policy Address. The initiatives will nurture and attract talent equipped with professional knowledge and skills, contributing to the sustainable development of Hong Kong and our nation.

Build an International Education Hub

Implement the Arrangement on Mutual Recognition of Vocational and Professional Qualifications with the Mainland - The VTC is grateful to the Government’s continued efforts in exploring with Mainland authorities the implementation of the mutual recognition of sub-degree level qualifications between Hong Kong and the Mainland. The VTC will support the Government in advancing this initiative, which will facilitate cross-boundary job-seeking and the pursuit of further studies by graduates of VPET in both places.

Advance the Development of Universities of Applied Science (UASs) – The VTC has been supporting the Government’s initiative on the development of UASs in Hong Kong, and is offering “Applied Science-Oriented” degree programmes through The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi), a member institution of the VTC. THEi joined the “Alliance of Universities of Applied Sciences” as an Associate Member last year. THEi is now working full steam ahead for its upgrade to a UAS and will continue to support the Government in implementing relevant policies.

Relax Restrictions on Admission of Self-financing Students - The Policy Address proposes that, starting from the 2026/27 academic year, the enrolment ceiling for self-financing non-local students of each funded post-secondary institution will be raised from the level currently equivalent to 40% of local student places to 50%. The VTC welcomes this measure, which will help attract more non-local students to study in Hong Kong.

Northern Metropolis University Town

The VTC supports the Government’s plan to develop the Northern Metropolis University Town. The Policy Address mentions the recommendation to devise an industry-led approach, for example to consider having the land in the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area to integrate with nearby, high-end professional services as well as VPET facilities for joint development. It is believed that the initiatives will nurture more VPET talent and promote synergistic development of Hong Kong and Mainland cities in the Greater Bay Area.

Vocational Professionals Admission Scheme (VPAS)

The Policy Address proposes to extend the pilot Vocational Professionals Admission Scheme to allow non-local students enrolled in eligible full-time higher diploma programmes in the 2026/27 and 2027/28 academic years to stay in Hong Kong for one year after graduation to seek relevant jobs.  The VTC welcomes the initiative, which will help attract more non-local students to pursue VPET programmes at VTC, and contribute to the workforce of various skilled trades upon graduation.

Accelerate the Development of New Industrialisation

VTC is pleased to note the initiatives to accelerate the development of new industrialisation. As a founding member of the “Hong Kong New Industrialisation Development Alliance,” the VTC will actively leverage the advantages and strengths of VPET, working closely with various sectors to support new industrialisation and inject momentum into Hong Kong's economy.

The VTC is delighted that the Government will step up the promotion of artificial intelligence (AI) as a core industry for Hong Kong’s development, as well as pressing ahead more trial projects in hydrogen energy. VTC’s strategic initiatives also cover these areas, with a commitment to fostering industry development. The VTC will continue to support and work in line with the Government’s policies, providing high-quality VPET in response to social and economic development, and training more VPET talent.

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