HONG KONG – The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau and the Youth Development Commission of Hong Kong on Monday jointly launched the 2024-25 funding scheme for youth exchange in the Chinese mainland.

The first round of the 2024-25 Funding Scheme for Youth Exchange in the Mainland will accept applications until Dec 11 from eligible non-governmental organizations, the government said in a statement.

Through the scheme, the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau and the Youth Development Commission provide funding for non-governmental bodies to organize youth exchange projects on the mainland for young people in Hong Kong.

READ MORE: Mainland-HK funding scheme opens for applications

The goal of the scheme is to enhance their awareness and understanding of the country’s development, foster their exchange with mainland people, and strengthen their sense of national identity.

ALSO READ: Hong Kong youth schemes invite applications

The second round of applications will start in mid-2024, the government added.