Application open for 2023-24 Annual Program
Application info
Admin
6/7/20234 min read
Introduction
Are you a student aged between 15 and 24 seeking to make a positive impact in the education sector by improving educational equity in Hong Kong? This exciting initiative offers a unique opportunity to engage in discussions about the existing problems in the education system in Hong Kong, design solutions to alleviate the problems identified, offer guidance to children in need of academic support. Read on to learn more about the program's timeline, mentorship and discussion-based learning components, and how to apply.
Program Timeline and Venues
Application Period: 1-30 June 2023
Discussion-Based Learning: 10-14 July 2023 @ The Education University of Hong Kong
Mentorship Program Bonding Activities 1 & 2: 26 August, 2 September 2023 @ Mongkok Kai-fong Association Limited Chan Hing Social Service Centre;
Mentorship Program Bonding Activities 3 & 4: 9, 16 September 2023 @ Po Leung Kok Cho Kwai Chee Energetic Youth Club
Mentorship Program Optional Bonding Activities: Christmas and Easter Breaks (Exact Dates TBC)
Mentorship Program Continued: 17 September 2023 - 31 May 2024
Mentorship Program Final Gathering: 1 June 2024
Fees
Thanks to the generous support of our partners and sponsors, our program fee is completely free, covering all administrative costs and ensuring accessibility for all participants.
Discussion-Based Learning Overview
Participants will embark on an immersive 5-day experience, where they will be guided through the three phases of Design Thinking, aimed at addressing educational inequity in Hong Kong. Grouped into teams of 8-12, they will collaborate to design innovative solutions or raise awareness about this pressing issue.
The first day of the program is dedicated to briefing, team-building activities, and mentorship training. The arrangements for Days 2 to 5 are described below:
Days 2-4: Empathy
12pm - 12:45pm Independent Research
12:45pm - 3pm Seminar
3pm - 5pm Discussion
The Empathy phase aims to expose participants to the existing problems in the education system through independent research, seminars by professionals, and discussions with peers. They are also encouraged to dive deeper into topics such as the philosophies of education and controversial issues in education to be better prepared for brainstorming solutions to these problems.
Days 5: Ideation & Prototyping
12pm - 12:30pm Briefing
12:30pm - 2pm Ideation
2pm - 3:30pm Prototyping
3:30pm - 5pm Presentation
During the Ideation phase, participants will identify opportunities form their previous discussions for designing solutions. The Prototyping phase then guides participants through the processes for evaluating the feasibility of the solution and develop a plan for implementation. Each group will finally give a presentation on their learning outcomes throughout the past give days and their project idea to a panel of judges.
Mentorship Program Overview
Each participant will have the invaluable opportunity to make a positive impact on a young mentee's life. Through one-on-one mentoring relationships, participants will provide academic support and guidance to mentees aged 9 to 14 years old. Here's an overview of the mentorship program:
Commencement: The mentorship program will kick off on 26 August 2023, marking the beginning of a transformative journey for both mentors and mentees.
In-Person Bonding Activities (First 4 weeks starting 26 August 2023): For the initial four weeks of the program, participants will engage in weekly in-person bonding activities held on Saturdays. These activities will serve as a foundation for building rapport and establishing a strong mentor-mentee relationship.
Ongoing Mentorship (26 August 2023 - 1 June 2024): From the conclusion of the bonding activities until 1 June 2024, participants will continue their mentorship journey by meeting with their mentee at least once per week. These meetings can be conducted either online or in-person, providing flexibility while ensuring consistent support and guidance.
Academic Support and Relationship Building: During mentorship sessions, participants will focus on providing academic support to their mentees, assisting with homework, exam preparation, and overall academic development. Furthermore, the mentor-mentee relationship will extend beyond academics, aiming to build a trusting bond and providing a safe space for mentees to seek guidance and share their experiences.
Optional In-Person Outings and Game Sessions: To foster deeper connections and create memorable experiences, optional in-person outings and game sessions will be organized during Christmas and Easter breaks. These activities will provide mentors and mentees with opportunities to engage in recreational and interactive experiences, further strengthening their relationship.
The mentorship program offers participants a chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young individuals, helping them navigate educational challenges, develop essential skills, and build self-confidence. By fostering a supportive and caring environment, mentors will contribute to the personal and academic growth of their mentees, empowering them to overcome obstacles and thrive in their educational journey.
Application process
We invite passionate youths aged 15 to 24 who are eager to learn about education equity issues and make a positive impact to apply for our program. Here is a breakdown of the application process:
Online Application: Start by filling out the Google form linked here:
This application allows us to learn more about you, your interests, and why you are interested in participating in our program. Please take your time to provide thoughtful and insightful responses.
Interview: After reviewing the applications, selected candidates will be invited to an in-person or online interview. The purpose of the interview is to delve deeper into your background, experiences, and motivations. It also gives us the opportunity to assess how well you can contribute to the program and work collaboratively with others.
Acceptance: We have limited spots available and aim to accept approximately 30 participants.
Program Completion: Upon successful completion of both the Discussion-based Learning and Mentorship programs, participants will be eligible to receive a certificate to acknowledge your commitment and dedication to the program.