ENG-2004 — Page 525

Recreation, Sport and the Arts I 455

Public courses, including international courses to the Mainland's Silk Road, Japan, Sabah and Nepal, are designed with different training objectives to serve people of different ages and needs. Two courses subsidised by the Government's Continuing Education Fund, with the objectives of strengthening employees' capabilities and their working relationships, have been running for two years. Participants reported that they became more confident and capable to deal with job challenges and improved their interpersonal skills after the training.

In cooperation with schools, universities and various charitable organisations, Outward Bound continues to deliver school programmes for students, teachers, social workers and many others that aim at all-round development of individuals to create motivated, caring and competent leaders.

A wide variety of customised corporate programmes are also designed for corporations and government departments to enhance team effectiveness, leadership and creative thinking, and to build a positive corporate culture. Community programmes for special groups, such as the mentally and physically disabled, the socially deprived, youth at risk and former drug addicts, always aim to help physical, mental and social development of individuals.

Outward Bound Hong Kong continues to support the training programmes and activities of Outward Bound China, by providing professional trainers and resources.

Adventure-Ship

Adventure-Ship is a registered charity that maintains the 27.5 metre sailing junk, the Huan, and provides nautical training programmes for underprivileged children and children with disabilities. Adventure-Ship is a member of the Hong Kong Council of Social Service and is funded mainly by the Community Chest and the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust.

Each year, more than 6 000 young people benefit from the training programmes offered. The training consists of day or overnight trips (up to three days and two nights) within Hong Kong waters. The ship can accommodate 60 youngsters on day trips and 50 on overnight voyages.

Challenge through 'disciplined entertainment' is the main theme of training. Once on board, participants are regarded as members of the ship's crew and take part in the operational routines. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, they are trained to face new challenges and participate in activities that build team spirit. and self-confidence. The training programmes have been devised to cope with various weather conditions and the special requirements of children of different aptitudes and backgrounds.

Adventure-Ship is making good progress with its programme to build a replacement sailing training vessel for the Huan, which has been in service for more than 27 years. Building of the new vessel is due to be completed in Spring 2005. The vessel will be named the Jockey Club Huan, in recognition of Hong Kong Jockey Club's donation of $24 million to fund construction.

Page 525Page 526

456 Recreation, Sport and the Arts