5
A spokesman for the Home Affairs Department said the programme was aimed at helping new immigrants integrate into the community as quickly as possible and encouraging their participation in community affairs.
"The first talk will focus on social services such as public housing as well as medical and social welfare services.
"The second talk is mainly concerned with the educational system, including an introduction to adult education and vocational training. Some young mainland immigrants who have achieved good results in school will speak of their learning experience.
"The third talk will centre on ways of adjusting to a new environment and fostering harmonious family life. The talks will be conducted by representatives from the government and non-governmental organisations in both Putonghua and Cantonese.
"An evaluation of the programme will be made later to decide whether similar, or modified, orientation programmes should be introduced," the spokesman said.
Admission to the programme is free and the number of participants limited to
100.
Application forms are now available at the Eastern District Office. Social Welfare Department's Causeway Community Centre. Fukien Middle School and Fukienese Association Limited.
Enquiries can be directed to the Eastern District Office on 2570 4125.
End
Inaugural issue of 10-year exchange fund notes well received
There was good market response to the tender today (Monday) for the inaugural issue of 10-year exchange fund notes which mature in 2006, according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA).
The 10-year notes, which carried a coupon rate of 7.37% were 13.52 times over-subscribed, a new record for Exchange Fund paper issued so far.