HK Finds Answer for Global Tech Talent Crunch
Cities around the globe are in a frantic race to cement their status as technology hubs. Amidst this race, Hong Kong, traditionally known as a financial behemoth, is steadily morphing its identity, embracing the tech wave. At the heart of this transformation lies a program: NxTEC.
On September 11, 2023, over 100 students from diverse backgrounds marked their transition into the professional world, having completed the rigorous NxTEC (Next Technologist Entrepreneurial Champion) Career Launcher program. More than just a graduation, this ceremony symbolized their entree into over 60 renowned tech companies, reflecting their determination and skill.
NxTEC, conceived to fulfill the mounting tech talent needs in Hong Kong, encapsulates a dynamic blend of advanced workshops, mentorship, and internships. With the support of sponsors like J.P. Morgan, partners like Generation Hong Kong, major universities, and various HKSTP-associated companies, this initiative provides a golden bridge for budding professionals enthusiastic about making their mark in the Innovation and Technology (I&T) sector.
According to the personalities behind NxTEC, this new breed of talent brings invigorating ideas, aiding startups in pushing past conventional boundaries. Their fresh perspective is enhancing the momentum of HKSTP's associated companies and steering them towards success.
Derek Chim, spearheading Incubation and Acceleration Programmes at HKSTP, remarked, "Talent remains a critical element to a thriving I&T sector, which will help power a new chapter in Hong Kong's economic growth. The ongoing success and spirit of collaboration at NxTEC will help to support the city’s burgeoning potential as a global I&T talent hub.”
Sukrit Khatri of J.P. Morgan resonated with similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of building a diverse workforce and ensuring inclusivity, "With the latest NxTEC Career Launcher, I am proud to say we have successfully built a diverse talent pipeline by nurturing passionate and high-caliber students from different academic backgrounds and we are delighted to see that many of them were placed into Science Park's startups."
Brian Cheng from Generation Hong Kong, a crucial cog in the NxTEC program, highlighted their pivotal role in aligning young talent with rising startups in HKSTP, bridging the gap between academic aspirations and professional ambitions.
Available to students from various academic backgrounds, NxTEC aspires to broaden the horizons of the I&T and associated sectors. Since its advent in 2015, it has triumphantly propelled the tech careers of over 2,500 youth, engaged with many partner firms, and enabled 500+ successful placements.
Image credit: iStockphoto/ChayTee
