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6,000 students benefit from Sir Edwrad Youde Memorial Fund
The Sir Edward Youde Memorial Fund has supported more than 6,000 students since it was set up in 1987. More than 560 scholars and fellows have completed their studies and are now working in Hong Kong in different fields, contributing to the well being and development of the territory.
This year 855 students were granted awards and scholarships under the Fund to pursue their studies.
An annual awards presentation ceremony, together with a variety show, was held at City Hall this (Saturday) evening to mark the 10th anniversary of the Fund.
Lady Youde, who presented the awards at the ceremony, thanked the donors for their generous support.
"The success of the Fund has all been made possible by the generous support we have received from very many people.
"We are particularly indebted to those who worked so hard to set up the Fund in 1987; and here I should like to pay special tribute to our first Chairman of the Council, the late Stephen Cheong," Lady Youde said.
"I am deeply grateful to my colleagues, past and present, who have devoted long hours to serving on the Board and Council. It is due to the determination and vision of members such as Sir Quo-wei Lee, Chairman of the Board for seven years that we are able to celebrate ten years of growth and success."
The Fund has disbursed a total of $12.6 million in the 1996-97 academic year. Awards made include 12 awards for overseas studies; four medals for students who have obtained outstanding results in public examinations; 17 awards for disabled students; 89 scholarships for diploma and undergraduate students; 41 fellowships for post-graduate students and 691 prizes for senior secondary school students.
Exclusive sponsorship in the amount of $600,000 towards the Young Friends of the Hong Kong Arts Festival Scheme has continued in 1996-97 with the aim to increase secondary school students' exposure to the performing arts.