HKMA extends Banking Talent Programme until August

The programme was supposed to end in February.

Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has extended its Banking Talent Programme until August this year, citing uncertainties to the city’s economic recovery due to COVID-19.

The programme, launched by HKMA and the banking industry in 2020, aims to provide fresh graduates with six-month short-term work opportunities and professional training.

If the programme was not extended the employment period of about 600 fresh graduates who have been provided with job opportunities will expire at the end of February.

“Participating institutions may extend the employment period of graduates recruited in 2021 under the Programme for a period of up to six months till August 31, 2022, having regard to their operational needs. The HKMA will continue to reimburse up to 50 per cent of the monthly salary of Programme participants during the extended period,” the HKMA said.

Apart from the Banking Talent Programme, HKMA Chief Executive, Eddie Yue, said the agency, together with the Hong Kong Institute of Bankers (HKIB), also launched brand new initiatives including the Future Banking Bridging Programme and a series of career talks.

“Going forward, the HKMA will continue to organise these activities on a regular basis. We are also actively exploring new initiatives together with the industry with a view to grooming young talent for the banking sector in a more systematic and targeted manner after the Programme ends in August this year. The details will be announced as soon as they are finalised,” Yue said.