ENG-2008 — Page 422

346 Communications, the Media and Information Technology

Institutional Framework on the Administration of '.hk' Domain Names

To ensure the public internet domain names are properly managed, in 2002 the Government appointed the Hong Kong Internet Registration Corporation Limited (HKIRC), a non-profit-making company, to administer the '.hk' domain name.

To make the most of the benefits from this public resource, the Government has been working closely with the HKIRC to instigate changes to the institutional framework to make better use of the '.hk' internet domain. In December 2008, the HKIRC simplified the membership classes and formed a smaller Board of Directors to focus on corporate governance. The HKIRC will also set up a new advisory panel to engage stakeholders to advise the Board and to enhance transparency on its activities.

IT Manpower

The Government is committed to creating an environment where a well- qualified IT workforce can flourish and meet the needs of a digital economy. The Government has been working closely with the industry and academia to facilitate continued upgrading of the IT workforce. It has been providing sponsorship for an annual IT exchange programme since 2002 to expose students to IT projects in overseas or Mainland universities. The Government has also sponsored the implementation of IT internship programme which provides opportunities for IT graduates to gain practical working experience.

On the industry side, through Government sponsorship, the Hong Kong Computer Society is implementing a Certification System for IT Professional Qualifications.

Hong Kong as a Hub for Technological Co-operation and Trade

Facilitating the IT Industry

The Government has introduced a range of measures to cultivate a vibrant, competitive and innovative ICT industry. They help to increase business opportunities, improve service quality, build expertise and provide financial and infrastructural support.

The Government has been adopting an aggressive outsourcing policy for its IT projects. This, together with programmes aimed at promoting the use of IT in business and the community, has created a good environment for the local industry's growth. The Government will continue to help the industry to explore business. opportunities in Mainland and overseas markets. For example, the Government supports relevant industry bodies in organising overseas trade missions to explore software outsourcing business opportunities.

To assist Hong Kong service suppliers in entering the Mainland market and obtaining third-party accreditation of their service, the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) allows them to apply for Computer Information System Integration (SI) Qualification Certification. Seven Hong Kong companies have been granted the SI Qualification Certificate so far. Under Supplement V to the CEPA,