ENG-2004 — Page 266

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It promotes development of new service models and good empowerment practices. To enhance women's participation in advisory and statutory bodies (ASBS), the commission has obtained the Administration's agreement to take gender composition into account in making appointments to these bodies. A gender benchmark of 25 per cent has been set as an initial working target for appointments to ASBs. A proactive approach is being taken to reach out, identify and cultivate potential female candidates, and women's participation in ASBS (excluding official and ex-officio members) has improved: from 21 per cent in December 2003 to 23 per cent in December 2004. The Administration will continue to work in this area.

A major step in the capacity building of women was the implementation in March of an innovative and flexible learning mode, the Capacity Building Mileage Programme. The programme seeks to enhance women's all-round abilities and promote positive life skills. The programme is being implemented on a three-year pilot basis in partnership with a local tertiary institution and a radio station, with funding support from the Lotteries Fund and supplementary learning activities organised by NGOs. Since the launch of the programme, responses from women have been enthusiastic. Twelve radio courses and three face-to-face courses were conducted. The total number of enrolments was 3 480, which exceeded the first year's target of 2 100, not to mention the large audience reached through the radio programmes. Students says they have benefited from the courses in terms of increased interest in learning and enhanced confidence and knowledge in resolving problems in daily life.

To enhance communication with the non-governmental sector and to create synergy, the commission seeks to establish partnerships with NGOs through its various activities. In this connection, a planning forum was held in November to exchange views with women's groups and other interested parties on the future work direction. A framework of collaboration with NGOs and other interested parties has also been developed to facilitate cooperation. The commission will continue to collaborate with the non-governmental sector to promote the realisation of women's full potential and elimination of gender prejudices, and to strive for a more prosperous and better future for all.

Home Pages

Health, Welfare and Food Bureau: http://www.hwfb.gov.hk Social Welfare Department: http://www.info.gov.hk/swd Women's Commission: http://www.women.gov.hk