See Change Education Joins “Go Hong Kong Team” Campaign

HONG KONG, Jul 30, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – See Change Education, a wholly owned subsidiary of Asia Allied Infrastructure Holdings Limited, took part in the "Go Hong Kong Team" Campaign, organised by the Hong Kong Olympic Fans Club and co-organised by Key Connect last weekend. On that day, See Change Education staged live debate and public speaking performances on topics related to sports and the Olympic spirit, showcasing winners from See Change's International Parliamentary Debate Competition (IPDC) and International Public Speaking Competition, bringing joy and energy to the event.

Ying Wa College faced off PLK Tung Yuk Tien College, both consisting of winners of Top Speaker Award at See Change's Debate Competition in 2020

Through the event, See Change Education hopes to provide students with a stage to perform and apply their skills while celebrating sportsmanship and the Olympic spirit. Ms Rita Pang, Founder of See Change Education, said, "By discussing current affairs, I believe that children can apply critical thinking and communication skills to their daily lives. See Change Education runs global classrooms for students aged 5 – 18. We provide trainings in "communications" through courses in Debate & Public Speaking (verbal Skills), Critical Reading & Writing (writing skills) and Media Communications. Our topics cover various important areas such as history, culture, technology, so that students can thrive academically and beyond the classroom. Apart from realizing that public speaking courses are 'tremendous fun', children can also consider and analyse issues quickly as well as acquire a high level of organizational competence."

The winners of International Debate and Public Speaking Competition, which include students from the Diocesan Girls' Junior School, Diocesan Boys' School, The Independent Schools Foundation Academy, St. Paul's Co-Educational College Primary School, German Swiss International School, Harrow International School Hong Kong, Hong Kong International School, ESF Kowloon Junior School, Ying Wa College, Good Hope School, Aldrich Bay Government Primary School, Discovery Bay International School, Quarry Bay School, Po Leung Kuk Tang Yuk Tien College, Po Leung Kuk Yuen Yuen Primary School, Singapore International School, etc. spoke eloquently on stage and attracted a large audience.

See Change Education booths include an Olympic theme "check-in booth" for photo taking and booths for balloon twisting and souvenir distribution. Many parents are attracted to the West Kowloon Art Park as it provides them with the opportunity to bring their children to experience the Olympic atmosphere.

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Edvantage Group (0382.HK) Announced Its Business Update for the First 3 Quarters of FY2021

HONG KONG, Jul 26, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Edvantage Group Holdings Limited ("Edvantage Group" or the "Group", stock code: 0382.HK), the largest private higher education group in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (the "Greater Bay Area"), is pleased to announce its update on certain latest unaudited financial and operational information for the nine months ended 31 May 2021 (the "Period under Review").

Shenzhen venue, Edvantage Group's Shenzhen Office, from the left: Mr. Sunny Yan, Director of ICF & IR; Ms. Liu Yi Man, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer; Ms. Liu Wenqi, Chief Operating Officer

Hong Kong venue, Edvantage Group's Hong Kong Office Mr. Simon Wong, CFO and Company Secretary

Actual view of Jiangmen Xinhui new campus (Phase I) of Guangzhou Huashang Vocational College

Illustration of Jiangmen Xinhui new campus of Guangzhou Huashang Vocational College

Business Highlights (Unaudited data for the 9 months ended 31 May 2021)
— Revenue (including income from vocational education business1) grew by 47.9% YoY to approximately RMB901.3 million;
— Income from vocational education business increased by 270.0% YoY to approximately RMB42.0 million, representing a big jump in income from approximately RMB15.1 million in 2020 financial year;
— Gross profit increased by 50.3% YoY to approximately RMB449.3 million, and gross margin increased by 0.8 ppt YoY to 49.9%;
— The increase in revenue and gross profit was mainly attributable to consolidation of the financial results of the Sichuan New Concept Group into the financial results of the Group since January 2021. During the Period under Review, Sichuan New Concept Group contributed 5 months of financial results to the Group
Note: (1) Income from vocational education business has been included in that from the main business since FY2021. In the first 3 quarters of FY2020, such income was reflected in other income at approximately RMB11.35 million.

During the Period under Review, the Group's revenue increased by 47.9% year-on-year ("YoY") to approximately RMB901.3 million, a record high since its listing; among which, income from vocational education business increased by 270.0% year-on-year to approximately RMB42.0 million, representing a big jump of 178.1% from approximately RMB15.1 million in 2020 financial year, showing a strong growth momentum; gross profit increased by 50.3% YoY to approximately RMB449.3 million, and gross margin increased by 0.8 percentage point YoY to 49.9%.

The increase in revenue and gross profit was mainly attributable to consolidation of the financial results of the acquired 51% equity interest in Sichuan New Concept Group into the financial results of the Group since January 2021, and its contribution to the overall financial performance of the Group has become increasingly prominent.

Business Update
Following the National Policies, Society and Market Needs, High Compliance and High-quality Schooling Standards to Build A Century-old Prestigious School
Higher education and vocational education, both businesses of Edvantage Group, are supported by the People's Republic of China. During the Period under Review, schools were operated in key national economic development regions such as the Greater Bay Area and the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle in keeping with national policies.

In terms of higher education, the Group continues optimising its major settings which focus on Big Business and New Business and expanding more majors that closely follow the employment orientation and economic development direction of the local areas in the relevant fields of education, which are big health, big data and new energy.

In terms of vocational education, the Group accelerated the promotion of its high-quality development. Income derived from this business segment has been included in that from the main business segment since FY2021, showing the Group's confidence in its development. It is expected that this business segment can bring considerable performance contributions to the Group in the future, which in turn will continuously improve the Group's profitability.

Under the background of strong support from relevant national policies and superimposed on the Group's high compliance and high-quality schooling standards, the development of the Groups' higher education and vocational education businesses will maintain a good momentum, leading it to achieve steady and sustainable development.

Guangzhou Huashang College Has Repeatedly Made Breakthroughs in High-quality Schooling
During the Period under Review, Guangzhou Huashang College ("Huashang College") made a new important breakthrough in teaching. In May 2021, it was approved as Project Construction Unit with the right to grant master's degree and became one of the first 8 private colleges in Guangdong Province, which was a critical milestone in the history of the Group's education development. Moreover, Huashang College also made great progress in the development of majors. Its Accounting major was included in the national-level leading top majors for development in March 2021, marking another breakthrough in the development of majors after the designation of Accounting and Financial Management as one of the leading top majors for development in Guangdong Province in 2019 and 2020, respectively.

High Synergism Between Domestic and Foreign Schools
During the Period under Review, schools under the Group accelerated their synergism and deepened cooperation. The effect of integration and empowerment thus continued increasing, and also the teaching brands continued improving. Precisely, as for promoting academic education, the Group has launched international academic education programmes such as the foreign-China Dual Diploma programmes, overseas inclusive classes, international undergraduate and Global Immersion Programmes. As for enhancing students' employment competitiveness, the Group offers value-added teaching services such as various lectures by senior executives of famous companies, domestic and foreign tournaments and employment, postgraduate and certificate counselling. With the continuous provision of diversified and high-quality teaching services to students, the tuition levels and teaching brands of schools under the Group are expected to be sustainably improved.

New Campuses of Guangdong Schools are Progressing Smoothly
During the Period under Review, the Group's two new campuses, located in Sihui City, Zhaoqing City and Xinhui District, Jiangmen City, Guangdong Province respectively, were expanded smoothly. With the two new campuses being put into use successively, the Group's schooling capacity in the Greater Bay Area will see considerable rooms for expansion in the future.

About Edvantage Group Holdings Limited
Edvantage Group Holdings Limited ("Edvantage Group" or the "Group", stock code: 0382.HK) is the largest private higher education group in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (the "Greater Bay Area") and an early mover in education sector in pursuing international expansion, and it was listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange on 16 July 2019. As of 31 May 2021, the Group has more than 62,000 students in schools and owns a total of 8 higher education and vocational education institutes in China and overseas. In China, the Group operates Guangzhou Huashang College and Guangzhou Huashang Vocational College in Guangdong Province of the Greater Bay Area. In December 2020, the Group expanded its scope of education towards the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle by acquiring Urban Vocational College of Sichuan and Urban Technician College of Sichuan in Chengdu City, Sichuan Province. In addition, the Group also operates Greater Bay Area Business School in Hong Kong. Overseas, it operates Global Business College of Australia ("GBCA"), Edvantage Institute (Singapore) ("EIS") and Edvantage Institute Australia ("EIA").

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

More than 830,000 visitors attend 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair

HONG KONG, Jul 20, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – The HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, the HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the debut HKTDC World of Snacks drew to a successful close today. The seven-day fairs, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), attracted more than 830,000 visitors, offering a brand-new experience by bringing together a broad selection of books, sports and leisure products and snacks from more than 760 exhibitors.

The HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), concluded today. The event welcomed more than 830,000 visitors during its seven-day fair period, running concurrently with the HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the debut HKTDC World of Snacks.

The HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo showcased a broad selection of sports and leisure products and services, allowing visitors to try out different experiences, discover new interests and make good use of their leisure time.

The new HKTDC World of Snacks was well-received, featuring six thematic zones and bringing together more than 1,000 popular treats from across the globe.

Book Fair marks return of large-scale physical public shows, with more to come

Benjamin Chau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: "This year's Hong Kong Book Fair attracted more than 830,000 visitors over its seven-day run. We express our sincere gratitude to exhibitors and the general public for their support. The Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the debut World of Snacks also drew eager participation, offering visitors a wide range of activities and products, as well as a relaxing and diverse experience."

Mr Chau added that the gradual recovery of the local economy will lead to the return of more physical public shows, and that the HKTDC is preparing to stage more such exhibitions to give a further boost to the recovery. These include the HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, which will run from 25 to 29 July, as well as the HKTDC Food Expo, HKTDC Hong Kong International Tea Fair, Beauty & Wellness Expo, HKTDC Home Delights Expo and HKTDC Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition), which will run from 12 to 16 August.

Hundreds of cultural activities attract 310,000+ attendees

More than 250 cultural events were held on-site during the fair period, including the Theme of the Year: "Inspiring the Mind and Refreshing the Soul" Seminar Series, the Renowned Writers Seminar Series, and seminars under the theme English and International Reading. A total of over 600 events have been held to date in connection with the Book Fair, including activities under the month-long Cultural July citywide campaign, drawing more than 310,000 attendees. Five seminars under the Renowned Writers banner were streamed live online and attracted more than 130,000 views, enabling booklovers outside Hong Kong to participate virtually.

Average per capita spending at Book Fair reaches HK$817

The HKTDC commissioned an independent market research agency to conduct an on-site survey during the Book Fair, interviewing more than 800 visitors. Respondents reported that their average per capita spending at the Book Fair was HK$817, representing 65% of their overall average annual spending on books (HK$1,262). The survey results highlight the fact that the Book Fair remains a major book-purchasing platform for the public. Most respondents said they were drawn to the event by the prospect of new releases (82%), followed by discounted items (40%), children's books (17%) and diversified cultural activities (17%).

Most popular genres: fiction, literature, comics, self-improvement and travel

The survey also revealed more about the reading habits and preferences of visitors. Some 98% of respondents said they had read printed books in the past month, spending an average of 20 hours reading. The most popular genres were fiction (58%), literature (38%), comics (26%), self-improvement (22%) and travel (18%), with other popular genres including language study, social science, and arts and music. The survey also found that more than 70% of respondents had read e-books in the past month, spending an average of 15 hours reading.

Array of onsite hygiene measures provide reassurance

With the safety of the public and exhibitors remaining its top priority, the HKTDC adopted a range of onsite hygiene measures during the fairs. A total of 82% of respondents said they were satisfied with the crowd control measures adopted, while 86% said the various health measures put in place at the fairground helped to reassure them during their visit. The vaccination incentive campaign launched by the HKTDC along with a number of exhibitors was well received by the public. The HKTDC also offered some 30,000 free admissions to vaccinated visitors.

Exhibitions, seminars and more continue in Cultural July

While the Hong Kong Book Fair closed today, readers can still revisit recordings from about 100 selected seminars through the fair website or via the HKTDC's online video channels. The Cultural July citywide campaign continues until the end of this month with a broad range of activities including arts and cultural tours, exhibitions and seminars. For details, please visit the Cultural July website.

Sports and Leisure Expo and debut World of Snacks well-attended

The Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the debut World of Snacks also concluded today, after showcasing a broad selection of sports and leisure products and services along with tasty treats from across the globe. On-site events organised by the HKTDC, as well as various trials and interactive experiences offered by exhibitors, were enthusiastically received. The World of Snacks offered a brand-new experience to visitors and helped to create a vibrant atmosphere at the fairground.

Websites
Hong Kong Book Fair: http://www.hkbookfair.com
Cultural July: http://www.hkbookfair.com/culturaljuly
Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo: http://www.hktdc.com/hksportsleisureexpo
World of Snacks: https://worldofsnacks.hktdc.com
Book Fair video playlist: https://bit.ly/3ziVX6P
Photo download link: https://bit.ly/3z6Ssk2

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn

Media enquiries:
HKTDC Communications and Public Affairs Department

Hong Kong Book Fair
Sunny Ng, Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.org
Clayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org

Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks
Sam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

30th HKTDC Education & Careers Expo opens today

HONG KONG, Jul 15, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the 30th edition of the HKTDC Education & Careers Expo opened today and runs until 18 July (Sunday) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The expo is held concurrently with the HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and HKTDC World of Snacks, all taking place at the HKCEC. Open to the public free of charge, the two major sections at the expo – Education and Careers – provide comprehensive information on education and job opportunities.

L-R: Benjamin Chau; Michele Anderson, Vice-Consul, Trade Commissioner, Consulate General of Canada in HK; Benoit Cormier, Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of France in HK and Macau; Ingrid Yeung, Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service of the HKSAR; Margaret Fong; Carrie Yau, Executive Director, Vocational Training Council; Stephen Mann, AD – Student & Curriculum Development, Hong Kong Institute of Construction; Lai Kam Fai, Chief Engineer, Electrical and Mechanical Services Department

Six educational zones have been set up at this year's expo, including the Self-Betterment Zone, Tertiary Academy Zone, Vocational and Professional Education Zone, Continuing Education Zone, Creative and Educational Support Services Zone and International Exchange Village.

More than 90 on-site events are being organised during the expo, including fire investigation dog performances and seminars on further education, career opportunities, immigration information and working holidays in overseas countries.

Ingrid Yeung, Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), officiated at the opening ceremony this morning. In her welcoming remarks, Margaret Fong, HKTDC Executive Director, said: "Entering its 30th edition, the Education & Careers Expo is a one-stop platform for students and jobseekers looking to review a broad range of education opportunities and career options. This year, we are delighted to welcome 800 exhibitors, including educational institutions, government departments, public organisations, professional associations and private enterprises representing 14 countries and regions."

Six education-themed zones highlight local and overseas opportunities

Six educational zones have been set up at this year's expo, including the Tertiary Academy Zone, Vocational and Professional Education Zone, Continuing Education Zone, Creative and Educational Support Services Zone, International Exchange Village and the newly launched Self-Betterment Zone, featuring a wide range of courses and self-enhancement programmes offered by different educational institutes for students, especially Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination (HKDSE) graduates looking to chart a pathway according to their interests and capabilities.

The expo's education theme days highlight studying in the United States (16 July), France (17 July) and Canada (18 July), with representatives from consulate general offices on hand to introduce the prerequisites for admission, application procedures, information on campus life and more. Visitors can also meet with representatives from various officially recognised bodies to get first-hand information on studying abroad. Participating institutions include Advantage Austria Hong Kong and Jinan University and Huaqiao University from Mainland China.

Career theme days highlight employment trends

Catering to the recruitment demands of various industries, the expo will feature four career theme days that highlight employment trends. On the Construction Progression Pathway theme today (15 July), the supporting organisation – the Hong Kong Institute of Construction (HKIC) – invites its lecturers and graduates to discuss the manpower situation and current prospects within the industry, and introduce course details in areas such as painting and decorating, joinery, site surveying and welding. Virtual reality training equipment and students' work in electrical installation is also being showcased. The Electrical & Mechanical Engineering theme day tomorrow (16 July), co-organised by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) and the Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Trade Promotion Working Group, will invite industry professionals to share on current and future prospects in the industry and introduce the popular Engineering Graduate Training Scheme and Technician Training Scheme.

On the third day of the expo (17 July), the brand-new Skills theme, organised by the Vocational Training Council (VTC), invites several winners from the WorldSkills Competition to share their experience. Various seminars are being organised to enrich participants' knowledge on different skills, including interior design, wardrobe, jewellery and webpage development. On the last day of the expo (18 July), medical and healthcare professionals will share their work experience, the career pathway and job requirements during the Introduction to Healthcare and Medical Sector theme day.

On-the-spot recruitment provides opportunities from various industries

The Youth Zone gathers information on continuing education and career planning for young people. This year, representatives from the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups will introduce a range of popular courses such as floral design, barista skills, art therapy, speech therapy and STEM learning. Building Inspection is one of the highlights this year, with representatives sharing insider knowledge and details of career development in the industry, as well as interview tips for young candidates. In addition, information on the Working Holiday Scheme provided by various consulates can also be found at the expo, allowing young people to explore opportunities overseas.

Meanwhile, this year's Recruitment Square will cooperate with various recruitment platforms, public organisations and private companies to offer more than 2,600 job opportunities during the expo. WHub, a Hong Kong start-up community platform, will work with nine local start-ups for on-site recruitment and there will also be a range of summer jobs and temporary internships on offer for younger people. In addition, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Office of the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau will set up a booth to help young people explore opportunities for study, work and entrepreneurship arising from the development of the Greater Bay Area.

Celebrities share practical tips

More than 90 on-site events will be organised as part of the expo, including fire investigation dog performances, seminars on further education, career opportunities, immigration information, working holidays and management trainee programmes, and sharing sessions on working in the mainland. Various celebrities will also be offering their valuable experiences and insights.

Jayden Lam, renowned DSE Chinese tutor, spoke earlier today and shared his tips on entering the tutoring industry and the future prospects it presents. Dominic Tong, Senior Lecturer from the Department of Physics at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and guest host of the TVB programme Sidewalk Scientist, will share intriguing ways to understand physics to spur people's learning interest along with interesting thoughts on exploring potential on 16 July. The following day, Bonnie Wong, DJ from Commercial Radio Hong Kong, will talk about her career experience after graduation and how she made her dream come true by embracing the opportunity to become a TV and radio host. On the last day of the expo (18 July), Education expert Jeffrey Hui will advise participants on the strategies for studying in the UK and offer golden tips on how to put together a great CV.

Expo website: https://hkeducationexpo.hktdc.com/
Activity schedule: https://bit.ly/3wyG5vm
Photo download: https://qrgo.page.link/2ueys

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly SMEs, in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels.

Media enquiries:
HKTDC Communications & Public Affairs Department
Christine Kam, Tel: +852 2584 4514, Email: christine.kam@hktdc.org

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks open to public today

HONG KONG, Jul 14, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – The 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), begins today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) and closes on 20 July. Running in tandem with the Book Fair are the HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and debut HKTDC World of Snacks. Together they are welcoming more than 760 exhibitors to deliver a brand-new experience to visitors, with an array of books, leisure activities and tasty treats. Officiating at this morning's opening ceremony for the long-awaited event were Carrie Lam, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, together with Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, and Margaret Fong, Executive Director of the HKTDC.

Carrie Lam (second from left), Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), together with Dr Peter K N Lam (second from right), Chairman of the HKTDC, Edward Yau (left), Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the HKSAR, and Margaret Fong (right), Executive Director of the HKTDC, joined other guests at this morning's opening ceremony for the long-awaited 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair.

After attending this morning's opening ceremony, Dr Peter K N Lam (second from right), Chairman of the HKTDC, visited the Children's Paradise, Art Gallery and other zones at the Book Fair together with Margaret Fong (right), Executive Director of the HKTDC, and Benjamin Chau (second from left), Deputy Executive Director of HKTDC.

Hong Kong literature lovers have been eagerly awaiting the opening of the Book Fair in the hope of buying their favourite books and discovering new reading adventures.

This year's fair has the theme "Inspirational and Motivational Reading" with the tagline "Reading the World – Inspiring the Mind and Refreshing the Soul". Benjamin Chau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: "After being rescheduled twice amid the volatility of the pandemic, we are delighted that the Hong Kong Book Fair can finally begin today. The HKTDC, publishers and the general public are unanimous in their desire for large-scale physical exhibitions such as this to return. The Book Fair presents a wide array of cultural activities, including the Eight Seminar Series and thematic exhibitions at the Art Gallery, that Hong Kong's booklovers have been yearning for. Along with the Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the new World of Snacks, visitors can enjoy a wide range of literary events, sports and leisure products and activities, and indulge in popular snacks from across the globe."

Thematic exhibitions aim at nourishing minds

Aligning with this year's Book Fair theme, the HKTDC is showcasing a thematic exhibition, titled "Words to Warm the Heart", at the Art Gallery. The exhibition introduces a number of inspirational authors and some of their selected works, including (in no particular order) A Nong, Cheng Kok-kong, Lee Chack-fan, Philemon Choi, Wu Yin-ching, Shirley Loo, Agnes Chan, Joseph Sung, Su Hei and Rap Chan. Precious memorabilia from the authors are on display, including manuscripts, artworks and souvenirs, giving readers a deeper appreciation of the writers' creative journeys from different perspectives and encouraging them to seek out books that can motivate and inspire.

The Theme of the Year: "Inspiring the Mind and Refreshing the Soul" Seminar Series features leading inspirational authors to share their insights on creative writing with visitors. Lee Chack-fan examined "Seize the Day for Peace of Mind – Growth of Mankind amid Pandemic and Disaster" earlier today (14 July), sharing his thoughts on how to live a more valuable life. Agnes Chan will share on effective parenting methods in the seminar "Nurture Outstanding Children with Honesty, Courage and Kindness" tomorrow (15 July), while Joseph Sung will discuss his outlook on life by comparing it to football in the seminar "Football Life" via video conferencing (17 July).

Children's Paradise, the classic Hong Kong children's magazine, summed up the essence of childhood. It was first published in the 1950s and went on to become the city's longest-lasting kids' publication, growing together with generations of local children. The Cherished Memories of the Children's Paradise exhibition displays various items, such as illustrations, authentic works by Lo Koon-chiu (former Chief Editor of the magazine) and the very first issue of the publication. Cheung Chun-wah, former director of Children's Paradise, will talk about his relationship with the magazine at a seminar titled "Sentiments in Writing".

Another exhibition, "The Dragon Never Dies – Bruce Lee @80", organised with the support of the Bruce Lee Club, brings together Bruce Lee memorabilia from collectors, such as portraits, movie tickets, precious photographs and stamps, to pay tribute to the kung fu star. Wong Yiu-keung, Chairman of the Bruce Lee Club, movie director Alex Cheung and collector Ng Kwai-lung will speak at the seminar "Their Bruce Lee Stories" (17 July), giving participants the chance to revisit some of the legendary kung fu star's most iconic moments.

Eight Seminar Series promotes broad range of literature

The Eight Seminar Series returns to the Book Fair in 2021, continuing to promote the joy of reading by exposing readers to authors and works from a diverse range of literary genres. In addition to the "Inspiring the Mind and Refreshing the Soul" Seminar Series mentioned above, the Renowned Writers Seminar Series, co-organised with Mingpao and Yazhou Zhoukan, features a selection of acclaimed writers who will speak at seminars in person or via video.

The speakers in this seminar series include Fan Jinshi, known as the "Daugter of Dunhuang"; Gu Chunfang, professor at the Peking University School of Arts and co-author of "Dunhuang is Where My Heart Belongs: Biography of Fan Jinshi"; Liang Hong, professor at the School of Liberal Arts, Renmin University of China; Shuang Xuetao, the first Mainland Chinese author awarded the Taipei Literature Award; Wei Hui, a contemporary author from Mainland China; acclaimed novelist Ping Lu from Taiwan; Cheng Pei-kai, founder of the Chinese Civilisation Centre at the City University of Hong Kong; Louis Ng, Museum Director of the Hong Kong Palace Museum; Xu Zidong, author of Reading Eileen Chang; Ronald Soong, Eileen Chang's estate executor; and Zhou Jieru, Chief Editor of Hong Kong Literary. The seminars will enable authors to communicate with booklovers in a more direct and meaningful way.

With the support of Book Depository, an international online bookstore, the English and International Reading Series invites renowned authors from around the globe to share their creative experiences. The line-up features Heather Morris, the New Zealand author who has sold more than 7 million copies of her novels worldwide; renowned British broadcaster and writer Jeremy Vine; New York Times bestselling author of young adult novels Brigid Kemmerer; fantasy and graphic novel maestro Neil Gaiman; sinologist and Professor of Modern Chinese History and Literature at the University of London Julia Lovell; Co-director of Proverse Hong Kong, a local independent publisher, Gillian Bickley; editor of the Asian Review of Books Peter Gordon; former president of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong Juan Jose Morales; and experienced Mainland China-focused journalist and writer Mark O'Neill. Members of the public can broaden their horizons by immersing themselves in the diverse range of topics covered in these seminars.

Other seminar series at the Book Fair include World of Knowledge, Children and Youth Reading, Spiritual Growth and Personal Development, Lifestyle and the Hong Kong Cultural and Historical Seminar Series, catering to the diverse tastes of readers from all age groups. Visit https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/en/Events/Event-Schedule.html for full details of the Eight Seminar Series.

Thematic zones cater to booklovers' needs

As a cultural exchange platform, the Hong Kong Book Fair helps take booklovers on a global literary journey. The fair features numerous thematic zones, including Mainland China Publishers, General Books Pavilion, University Press Square, Spirituality Zone, Children's Paradise, e-Books & e-Learning Resources and more, all of which offer quality publications from around the world that allow visitors to gain more exposure to the works of different genres from different regions. This year, two newly added zones, Back to School and Virtual Classroom, present various educational materials and instruction methods that add fun to the learning process.

Emerging sports featured at Sports and Leisure Expo

This year's Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo delivers a full programme that offers numerous sporting and leisure experiences. In addition to existing thematic zones such as Sports Hub, Fun & Play, Outdoor Adventure and Handicraft Market, the expo features two new zones, namely Refresh & Relax and Travel. Excursion, which showcase exciting outdoors activities such as diving, rock climbing and stand-up paddleboarding. A range of free trials will be offered at the expo, including dodgebee and pickleball. There will also be demonstration sessions include dragon dancing, Brazilian jiu jitsu and capoeira, freestyle football and speed stacking. Visitors who prefer more sedentary pursuits can participate in activities such as photography workshops and table-top games. In addition, rugby sevens players Salom Yiu and Sham Wai-sum, freestyle football player Tony Ma and other Hong Kong sports stars will take part in a series of celebrity-sharing sessions and performances.

The Japan Pavilion returns this year on the fifth floor. Exhibitors from nine cities and prefectures, including Hyogo, Okinawa, Kagoshima, Shikoku and new exhibitors Miyazaki, Kumamoto, Fukuoka, Kagawa and Oita, are teaming up with Kadokawa Hong Kong Limited from the KADOKAWA CORPORATION to showcase Japanese culture and entertainment hotspots.

Debut World of Snacks presents global selection of treats

In Hall 5, the new World of Snacks features six thematic zones – Travel Delights, Chocolate and Sweet Factory, Oldie Snacks, Yummy & Healthy, Party Time and Snack Bar – bringing together more than 1,000 popular treats from across the globe. International snacks on offer include Taiwanese pineapple cakes, Finnish organic bulletproof coffee, Bien Jamon Iberico ham, quality Cheesepop from Holland and more. Meanwhile, Oldie Snacks offers vegan fruit gummies, crispy peanuts with fresh shrimp roe in black truffle flavour, hand-crafted nougat and a host of other options. Exciting activities are open to all visitors including the lollipop bouquet, handmade rock candies and taro pastry workshops.

Two citywide campaigns – Cultural July and Cultural Journey Online

In addition to hosting the one-week Book Fair, the HKTDC is also collaborating with numerous cultural and educational institutions, libraries, museums, shopping malls and cafes to organise a broad range of cultural events running from late June to end of July as part of the Cultural July – Joyful Summer Reading citywide campaign. What's more, the Cultural Journey Online webpage is now available on the Book Fair website, showcasing different e-reading resources, museum exhibitions and seminars offered by partners. Users can broaden their horizons and gain new knowledge at any time, whether its online or offline.

Incentive campaign and enhanced on-site hygiene measures

The HKTDC has engaged a number of exhibitors to offer various incentives to visitors who have been vaccinated, including discounts, giveaways and cash vouchers. Additionally, the HKTDC is offering 35,000 free admissions to people who have been vaccinated (having received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine). Free admission is being offered in limited quotas before 12 noon on every day of the fair to encourage the public to visit at non-peak hours. Members of the public can present their COVID-19 vaccination records (including an electronic vaccination record saved in the iAM Smart, eHealth or LeaveHomeSafe apps or a paper vaccination record) at the designated lanes. Free admission is given on a first-come-first-served basis while quotas last. There will be 10,000 free admissions available each day for the first two days of the fair (14-15 July), and 3,000 each day for the rest of the fair period (16-20 July). More details can be found on the Book Fair website or mobile app: https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/en/Visitor/Vaccination-Incentive-Campaign.html.

The well-being and safety of exhibitors and visitors is the top priority at the Book Fair. Various measures will be put in place to protect people against the pandemic, including requiring everyone entering and staying in the fairground to wear a mask, setting up temperature-screening stations, providing hand sanitiser at multiple locations around the venue, and stepping up the cleaning and disinfection of exhibitors' booths and the venue itself. To spread the flow of visitors and encourage the public to visit the fair during non-peak hours, in addition to offering morning admission tickets, the HKTDC has introduced night admission tickets as well as the special re-entry promotion. Physical ticket sales are not available at the fairground to avoid the use of cash and minimise contact. Visitors can pay with their Octopus cards at the entrance toll booths to gain entry.

The HKTDC Education & Careers Expo will be held at the HKCEC from 15 to 18 July, running in parallel with the Book Fair. Youngsters and jobseekers can access the latest useful information on education and career opportunities for their life planning at this one-stop event. Admission to the expo is free of charge.

The 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks
– Hong Kong Book Fair: www.hkbookfair.com/en
– Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo: www.hkbookfair.com/hksportsleisureexpo/en
– World of Snacks: https://worldofsnacks.hktdc.com
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3xHsB1H

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn

Media enquiries:
HKTDC Communication & Public Affairs Department

Hong Kong Book Fair
Sunny Ng, Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.org
Clayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org

Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks
Sam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org

Education and Careers Expo
Christine Kam, Tel: +852 2584 4514, Email: christine.kam@hktdc.org

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Renowned authors speak at HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair

HONG KONG, Jul 9, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – The long-awaited 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair takes place from 14 to 20 July at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The theme of this year's Book Fair is "Inspirational and Motivational Reading" and one of the highlights will be the "Eight Seminar Series", offering inspiration and helping readers enjoy a trip around the literary world. The "Renowned Writers Seminar Series", co-organised with Mingpao and Yazhou Zhoukan, and the "English and International Reading Series" supported by Book Depository will invite renowned authors from around the globe to share their writing journeys with readers at a series of virtual and in-person seminars.

The Renowned Writers Seminar Series will welcome Fan Jinshi, known as the "Daughter of Dunhuang", and Gu Chunfang, co-author of "Dunhuang is Where My Heart Belongs: Biology of Fan Jinshi", to share Ms Fan's conservation endeavours in the Dunhuang region of Mainland China over the past five decades. In addition, author Ping Lu will share with readers how her two battles with cancer have taken her into previously unexplored areas in the realm of her creative writing. Other authors in the star-studded line-up include Liang Hong, Shuang Xuetao and Wei Hui from Mainland China and Cheng Pei-kai, Louis Ng, Xu Zidong, Ronald Soong and Zhou Jieru from Hong Kong.

The "English and International Reading Series" invites renowned authors from around the globe to share their creative experiences. The line-up features Heather Morris, author of worldwide bestselling novels "The Tattooist of Auschwitz" and "Cilka's Journey"; renowned British broadcaster and writer Jeremy Vine; New York Times bestselling author of young adult novels "Brigid Kemmerer"; and other acclaimed authors such as Neil Gaiman, Julia Lovell, Peter Gordon, Juan Jose Morales, Gillian Bickley and Mark O'Neil. The international speakers will interact with Hong Kong literature lovers via video link, sharing the experiences behind their outstanding works and embarking on an inspirational journey together.

Fan Jinshi – 50 years of heartfelt memories in Dunhuang

During her days at the Department of Archaeology at Peking University, Fan Jinshi visited Dunhuang, a city on the edge of the Gobi Desert in China's northwestern Gansu Province, for an internship. After graduation, she joined the Research Institute on Cultural Relics of Dunhuang to work as an archaeologist. For some 50 years she lived a routine life, dedicating herself to research work in the famous Mogao Caves. In an interview, she shared that: "I was used to entering the caves on a daily basis. As well as the darkness when I was inside, I also enjoyed the first beam of sunlight that shone into the cave every morning – I saw the Buddha on the murals blush slightly and give a slight smile." Ms Fan now identifies as a citizen of Dunhuang and dedicates her life to the city and its history.

Fan Jinshi has made a far-reaching contribution to the development of Dunhuang. Her key research areas include the protection and management of the Mogao Caves and archaeological excavations conducted there. After 40 years of residing in the region, Ms Fan published the significant "Archaeological Report on Cave 266-275 of the Mogao Grottoes", for which she received widespread recognition and later garnered multiple awards. A lot of Ms Fan's Hong Kong readers are eagerly anticipating her sharing on the stories behind Dunhuang.

In 2020, the publication of "Dunhuang is Where My Heart Belongs: Biology of Fan Jinshi", written by Gu Chunfang, attracted a lot of public attention. Gu Chunfang and Fan Jinshi spent four years working together to write the archaeologist's autobiography. At the Book Fair, they will join via video link to guide readers through the heartfelt and intricate words of the biography and understand Ms Fan's enthusiasm for Dunhuang and its famous caves at a seminar titled "Dunhuang is Where My Heart Belongs".

Ping Lu – learning to face up to fear

Born in Taiwan, Ping Lu is a graduate of the Department of Psychology at National Taiwan University and a master graduate from the University of Iowa. She has also gained a reputation as one of the most popular contemporary novelists in Mainland China. She has won numerous awards including the United Daily Best Fiction Award and the Best Prose Award and Best Script Award from the China Times. Her works are renowned for covering a wide range of topics, addressing cultural, social and gender issues, and her writing style is noteworthy for being gentle and precise at the same time.

Although Ms Ping's name literally means "a flat pathway", becoming a successful writer has not always been a smooth journey. In 2018, a medical check-up revealed that the writer was suffering from lung cancer. "The Gaps", published in 2020, recorded her experiences and the changes in her thinking after twice having had cancer. In the face of a life-changing disease, she could not escape from the anxiety and her only choice was to embrace her nightmare. She stared fear directly in the face and realised that the greatest obstacle came from the stereotypes built up around illnesses, and cancer in particular.

Ms Ping will talk on the topic "Gifts from the Gaps – For You the Suffering" at the Book Fair, sharing with the general public about what she learned during the journey of illness and hoping to enlighten those who are also suffering from pain and disease.

Heather Morris – the art of listening in writing historical fiction

New Zealand-born Heather Morris is one of the renowned speakers taking part in the English and International Reading Series. A booklover since childhood, Ms Morris was always curious about the world, once saying that "you can escape from reality in an encyclopaedia and fly to a faraway land". She was always true to herself and followed her passion for storytelling, studying professional screenwriting in Australia in 1996. Her works have won wide acclaim and have even been adapted into Oscar-winning screenplays.

In 2003, Ms Morris met a survivor of Auschwitz, the notorious World War 2 concentration camp, who worked in the camp as a tattooist. She recorded his story and pieced together the fragments of pain, suffering and hope into a powerful script that won international acclaim before being turned into her debut novel, "The Tattooist of Auschwitz". Along with her second novel, "Cilka's Journey", her books have sold more than 7 million copies worldwide. Ms Morris will talk via video link at the Book Fair on the theme "Writing & The Power of Listening", sharing on the importance of writers being able to listen.

Jeremy Vine – investigations into war and human nature

Jeremy Vine is an English writer, broadcaster and journalist. He is best known as the host of a BBC Radio lunchtime programme for almost 20 years as well as impressing with in-depth interviews and reports related to politics and war. He has reported on the aftermath of wars in Africa, witnessing the carnage inflicted by the Eritrean-Ethiopian War and the Angolan Civil War. He was named Speech Broadcaster of the Year in 2005 and won a Sony Award for Interview of the Year in 2011 for his interview with Britain's then Prime Minister Gordon Brown during the 2010 general election.

His experience witnessing the evils of war has provided him with a great deal of inspiration. Last year, Mr Vine published "The Diver and the Lover", a novel about two war-survivor sisters who lost their home and fled to Catalonia where they struggled to make a living, and thereafter their encounter with surrealist artist Salvador Dali that triggered a series of surprising events. The author actually saw a painting by Dali that deeply touched him and gave him the inspiration to write the story. Mr Vine will give a video talk titled "The Painting that Changed My Life", explaining the relationship between the painting and "The Diver and the Lover", and will also share his thoughts on war and humanity with the audience.

Please visit the Event Schedule page (https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/en/Events/Event-Schedule.html) for more details of the Renowned Writers Seminar Series and the English and International Reading Series. Registration is free and open to the public.

For enquiries about interviews with the seminar speakers, members of the media should email clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org. Please provide details of the interview format, proposed questions and contact information in the email.

Seminar Series information and photo download: https://bit.ly/35WxcRD

The 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks
– Hong Kong Book Fair: www.hkbookfair.com/en
– Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo: www.hkbookfair.com/hksportsleisureexpo/en
– World of Snacks: https://worldofsnacks.hktdc.com

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn

Media enquiries
HKTDC Communication & Public Affairs Department
Sunny Ng, Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.org
Clayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

HKTDC Education & Careers Expo opens next week

HONG KONG, Jul 6, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the 30th edition of the HKTDC Education & Careers Expo runs from 15 to 18 July (Thursday to Sunday) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The event will run concurrently with the HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks, all taking place at the HKCEC.

Speaking at a press conference held today, Sophia Chong, HKTDC Assistant Executive Director, said that the HKTDC Education & Careers Expo will provide a one-stop platform for education, further studies and career opportunities. This year's event runs concurrently with the Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks, offering a diverse experience to the Hong Kong public.

L-R: Amy Liu, Senior Assistant Executive Director, Vocational Training Council; Choi Yu Sing, Curriculum Director, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups; Sophia Chong, Assistant Executive Director, HKTDC; Stephen Mann, Assistant Director – Student & Curriculum Development, Hong Kong Institute of Construction; Ceci Ho, Engineer, Electrical and Mechanical Services Department; Kristy Yip, Corporate Partnership Analyst, WHub

The 30th HKTDC Education & Careers Expo will run from 15 to 18 July at the HKCEC. The picture shows a scene from the previous expo in 2019.

Featuring two major sections – Careers and Education – the four-day fair will host 800 organisations representing 14 countries and regions, including educational institutions, professional associations, government departments, public organisations and private companies. Open to the public free of charge, the expo provides comprehensive information on education and job opportunities available in Hong Kong and overseas.

Speaking at a press conference to announce details of the expo, Sophia Chong, HKTDC Assistant Executive Director, said: "As the pandemic gradually begins to ease, students and parents are starting to look ahead to plan their future study and career paths. This year, the Education & Careers Expo features several thematic zones covering further education, continuing studies and job opportunities. Students, parents and jobseekers should not miss this fun and informative event, which runs concurrently with the Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks to offer a diverse experience to the Hong Kong public."

On-the-spot recruitment provides opportunities from various industries

Catering to the recruitment demands of various industries, the expo will feature four career theme days. On the Construction Progression Pathway theme day (15 July), the supporting organisation, the Hong Kong Institute of Construction (HKIC), will invite its lecturers and graduates to discuss the manpower situation and current prospects within the industry. The Electrical & Mechanical Engineering theme day (16 July), co-organised by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) and the Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Trade Promotion Working Group, will invite industry professionals to share on current and future prospects. On the third day of the expo (17 July), the brand-new theme of Skills, organised by the Vocational Training Council (VTC), aims to enrich participants' knowledge on different skills, such as interior design and webpage development. Medical and healthcare professionals will share their work experience, the career pathway and job requirements during the Introduction to Healthcare and Medical Sector theme day (18 July).

In addition, various exhibitors, including the EMSD and Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, will provide the latest job market updates, prospects, career pathways and the distribution of positions in various industries, helping visitors to chart a new path forward in their working lives. Meanwhile, this year's Recruitment Square will cooperate with various recruitment platforms, public organisations and private companies to offer more than 2,600 job opportunities during the expo. The Hong Kong start-up community platform WHub will work with nine local start-ups for on-site recruitment and there will also be a range of summer jobs and temporary internships on offer for younger people.

The Youth Zone will gather information on continuing education and career planning for those still at school. Professionals from the business, aviation, mechanical engineering and arts sectors will introduce the development opportunities and career prospects in their respective fields. This year, representatives from the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups will introduce a range popular courses, with Building Inspection as one of the highlights. They will share insider knowledge and career development in this industry, providing interview tips for young candidates. Information on the Working Holiday Scheme provided by various consulates can also be found at the expo, allowing young people to explore opportunities available overseas.

Six education-themed zones highlight local and overseas opportunities

Six educational zones will be set up at this year's expo. The Self-Betterment Zone is launched to help jobseekers get better prepared for life under the new normal, with a wide range of workshops and online courses to help young people discover their strengths. The Tertiary Academy Zone brings together universities and higher education institutions offering marticulation opportunities, including Hong Kong Shue Yan University and the Hang Seng University of Hong Kong. The Vocational and Professional Education Zone features the VTC, HKIC and Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, introducing a comprehensive range of pre-employment programmes. At the Continuing Education Zone, Wall Street English and EF Language offer self-enhancement programmes, while exhibitors in the Creative and Educational Support Services Zone provide practical tips for studying in the United States.

The International Exchange Village also returns in 2021 to provide visitors with on-site consultation services for studying and working overseas. Participating consulate general offices and official bodies include Canada, the United States, Germany, Hungary and Russia.

The expo's education theme days highlight studying in the United States (16 July), France (17 July) and Canada (18 July), with representatives from consulate general offices on hand to introduce the prerequisites for admission, application procedures, information on campus life and more. Visitors can also meet with representatives from various officially recognised bodies to get first-hand information on studying abroad. Participating institutions include Advantage Austria Hong Kong, Jinan University and Huaqiao University from Mainland China.

90+ inspiring events offer practical tips

More than 90 on-site events will be organised as part of the expo, including seminars on further education, career opportunities, immigration information, working holidays, management trainee programmes and sharing sessions on working in the mainland. Various celebrities will also be sharing their valuable insights:

– Jayden Lam, renowned DSE Chinese tutor, shares his tips on entering the industry;
– Dominic Tong, Senior Lecturer from the Department of Physics at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and guest host of the TVB programme Sidewalk Scientist, shares intriguing ways to understand physics to spur people's learning interest;
– Bonnie Wong, DJ from Commercial Radio Hong Kong, shares her career experience;
– Education expert Jeffrey Hui shares learning strategies and how to plan a successful blueprint for a future in the UK.

Expo website: https://hkeducationexpo.hktdc.com/
Activity schedule: https://bit.ly/2TvAqsJ
Photo download: https://bit.ly/2VcVN2n

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly SMEs, in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels.

Media enquiries
HKTDC Communications & Public Affairs Department
Christine Kam, Tel: +852 2584 4514, Email: christine.kam@hktdc.org

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Alpha DX Set Sights in China with Proposed Investment in JobForesight

Singapore, Jun 18, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Alpha DX Group Limited, ("Alpha DX", the "Company" and together with its subsidiaries, the "Group"), a premier learning and education solution company, is pleased to announce that its technology subsidiary, ZioNext Pte Ltd, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to invest in Singapore-based JobForesight, which has developed a cloud-based application, Careershe, that offers an academic & career planning platform that is targeted at the largest education system in the world.

Guangdong-based Careershe (https://www.careershe.com/en.html) was created to assist Chinese youth between ages of 15 and 25 years old to equip themselves with the relevant information and knowledge that are necessary for them to optimise their decision-making process in choosing the appropriate education programs as well as the career opportunities that are best suited to them.

With personalised matching analysis using Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the database on Careershe's platform, Careershe can enable Chinese youths to navigate through the extremely competitive education and career environment by personalising the education and career roadmap with the formulation of an optimal academic and career design.

With the proposed investment, Careershe universal student navigation platform will be integrated with Alpha DX's Ubiquitous Learning Super Platform (ULSP) to expand the Group's service offerings to harness new opportunities within the global learning and education ecosystem.

The Company will update shareholders of any developments on the proposed investment in JobForesight.

Formerly known as Alpha Energy Holdings Limited, the Group has transformed itself in January 2021 with fund raising and restructuring initiatives under the leadership of technology and financial veterans in the learning and education industry.

Alpha DX's CEO, Mr Daiji Yamada, said, "Education unlocks vital skills that shapes our career and lives, hence Careershe is developed as a trusted and reliable source for Chinese students to obtain objective insights and professional guidance in their education and career journey to achieve their full potential and dreams.

We aim to work together with Careershe to enable more youths to acquire the relevant skillsets and knowledge in their areas of interest and to transition seamlessly in their future careers."

About Alpha DX Group Limited
(Bloomberg: ALEN:SP / Reuters: ALPH.SI/ SGX Stock Code: VVL)

Listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange, Alpha DX Group Limited ("Alpha DX") is one of the region's leading learning solution companies.

Led by the veterans in Technology, Education, Corporate Training and Business consultancy in both the Board of Directors and the management team, Alpha DX provides next generation XR(2) integrated solutions in learning and education market enabling our customers to create engaging, impactful learning and training experiences that have never been possible until now– Next generation Learning Institutions, multi-dimensional learning design, digital content creation, learning technologies, learning platform solutions and systems integration — all under one roof.

With a strategic focus on integrating Extended Reality (XR)(1) technology to create a personalised and expanded learning experience, Alpha DX aims to develop new value propositions to serve the future needs of learners from its diversified customer base, ranging from government agencies, education institutions to private enterprises.

For more information, please visit www.alpha-dx.com.sg

(1) XR is a term used to describe immersive technologies (such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality plus other new innovations that are still in development) that can merge the physical and virtual worlds.

Issued on behalf of Alpha DX Group Limited. by 8PR Asia Pte Ltd.
Media & Investor Contacts:
Mr. Alex TAN
Mobile: +65 9451 5252
Email: alex.tan@8prasia.com

This press release has been reviewed by the Company's sponsor, PrimePartners Corporate Finance Pte. Ltd. (the "Sponsor"). It has not been examined or approved by the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the "Exchange") and the Exchange assumes no responsibility for the contents of this press release, including the correctness of any of the statements or opinions made or reports contained in this press release.

The contact person for the Sponsor is Ms Ng Shi Qing, 16 Collyer Quay, #10-00 Income at Raffles, Singapore 049318, sponsorship@ppcf.com.sg.

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Promethean Continues Ongoing Streak as Market Leaders for Interactive Flat Panel Displays in US and EMEA

HONG KONG, Jun 10, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited ("NetDragon" or the "Company"; Hong Kong Stock Code: 777), a global leader in building internet communities, is pleased to share that its flagship classroom technology subsidiary Promethean continues to be a global leader for interactive display technology, according to Futuresource Consulting's Q1 2021 report on World Interactive Displays.

As the education system worldwide began to get a handle on remote and blended learning models, the demand for interactive displays in classrooms remained strong. According to Futuresource Consulting's Q1 2021 report, interactive display sales had a year-over-year increase of 74%, making it by far the largest Q1 to date. As schools around the world are settling into the new normal of blended learning models, interactive whiteboards and flat panel displays continue to remain one of the best tools in K-12 classrooms where teachers can build interactive lessons and bring them to life in any environment.

Excluding China, Promethean was the leading brand with a 23.3% share of the total global interactive flat panel display for primary and secondary education market over the last twelve months as of 31 March 2021. In that same time period, Promethean gained market share in the US, UK, and Germany. Most recently, in Q1 2021, the company also continued its strong performance track record in the US, achieving a 32.4% market share for primary and secondary education markets.

Promethean's continued success in 2021 Q1 is attributed to its ActivPanel Elements Series which includes increased personalization functionality and enhanced security, giving teachers additional flexibility and IT leaders better manageability. "As the world is in the early stages of regaining some normalcy, Promethean continues to be dedicated to ensuring educators, students and parents have access to an elite learning experience regardless of location or resources," said Chris Hand, Chief Revenue Officer at Promethean. "With a notable increased level in optimism across suppliers, distributors, and partners, coupled with strong demand from schools, we are proud to be a leader in this space with solutions like our ActivPanel Elements Series which allows for dynamic learning across the globe."

About NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited
NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 0777) is a global leader in building internet communities with a long track record of developing and scaling multiple internet and mobile platforms that impact hundreds of millions of users, including previous establishments of China's first online gaming portal, 17173.com, and China's most influential smartphone app store platform, 91 Wireless.

Established in 1999, NetDragon is one of the most reputable and well-known online game developers in China with a history of successful game titles including Eudemons Online, Heroes Evolved and Conquer Online. In recent years, NetDragon has also started to scale its online education business on the back of management's vision to create the largest global online learning community, and to bring the "classroom of the future" to every school around the world. For more information, please visit www.netdragon.com.

About Promethean
Promethean is a true partner for educators and innovators with more than two decades helping people learn and grow together. We believe collaborative discovery is at the heart of the learning experience. Our award-winning interactive displays and lesson delivery solutions transform learning and workspaces into creative, connected environments to foster collective success. With headquarters in Seattle, WA, and offices worldwide, Promethean is a member of the NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 0777) group of companies. Visit us at PrometheanWorld.com.

Promethean and ActivPanel are trademarks or registered trademarks of Promethean Limited in the U.S. Europe, and many other countries around the world.

For investor enquiries, please contact:
NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited
Ms. Maggie Zhou
Senior Director of Investor Relations
Tel.: +852 2850 7266 / +86 591 8390 2825
Email: maggiezhou@nd.com.cn
Website: ir.netdragon.com

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

NetDragon Demonstrates Digital Education Achievements at The Fourth Digital China Summit

HONG KONG, May 3, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited ("NetDragon" or the "Company"; Hong Kong Stock Code: 777), a global leader in building internet communities, is pleased to announce that the Fourth Digital China Summit was recently held in Fuzhou City, Fujian, and as the exclusive special contribution brand partner of the summit, the Company has participated in the event and hosted the Digital Silk Road sub-forum for four consecutive years. During the summit, NetDragon shared its achievements in digital education and demonstrated more than 20 innovative digital education products and solutions such as teaching assistant robots, AR classes, NCET virtual experiments and 5G mobile smart classrooms, which were well-received by the participants.

Dr. Xiong Li, CEO of NetDragon, shared the Company's experience in uncovering the value of education data to promote the development of digital education in various countries during the round-table dialogue session. He also attended the Digital Silk Road cum China-ASEAN Smart City International Cooperation Sub-forum, during which he delivered a keynote speech titled "Strengthening Digital Education Cooperation, Promoting ASEAN's High-Quality Development" and shared the latest cooperation between NetDragon and different ASEAN countries.

"Over the past few years, our overseas education business has covered over 2 million classrooms, and our digital education products have accumulated over 100 million registered users," Dr. Xiong Li shared NetDragon's achievements in promoting digital education in different countries during the round-table dialogue session. In 2020, NetDragon entered into a country-level partnership with Egypt's Ministry of Education and the Company's online education products are now used by 23 million teachers and students in Egypt. Dr. Xiong Li said that starting from Egypt, NetDragon will help support education policy, differentiated teaching and students' personalized learning through uncovering the value of education data. Amid the opportunities and challenges brought on by the pandemic, NetDragon's one-stop blended learning solution has received recognition in overseas markets. The Company has successfully expanded the country model to a growing list of countries such as Egypt, Ghana, Thailand and Malaysia. It has established deep partnerships with more than 20 "Belt and Road" countries and catered for their edtech needs.

Riding on the platform of the summit, NetDragon also made notable achievements in multiple projects. As one of the important outcomes of the Digital Silk Road Sub-Forum, NetDragon and UNESCO Institute for Information Technologies in Education (UNESCO IITE) have officially launched the "E-Library for Teachers" project, which will actively promote teachers' capacity building and global education equity.

NetDragon and Smart Learning Institute of Beijing Normal University have also jointly released the research report "Analysis on Teaching Behaviour in Informatized Classes". Based on the big data from NetDragon's lesson preparation platform 101 Education PPT, the report puts forward thoughts and suggestions for the deep integration of information technology and teaching, improvement of teachers' ability in informatized teaching and optimization of smart education environment, through analyzing teaching behaviors such as tool use, content presentation and teacher-student interaction in classroom teaching, and learning behaviors such as inquiries, communications, construction and expressions.

The influence of the Digital China Summit has grown over the past four years, empowering the development of a "digital Fujian" and "digital China". In the future, NetDragon will continue to maintain a stronghold in the domestic market, expand to new markets along the "Belt and Road", facilitate global digital education cooperation and lead the development of quality education with digital technology.

About NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited
NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 0777) is a global leader in building internet communities with a long track record of developing and scaling multiple internet and mobile platforms that impact hundreds of millions of users, including previous establishments of China's first online gaming portal, 17173.com, and China's most influential smartphone app store platform, 91 Wireless.

Established in 1999, NetDragon is one of the most reputable and well-known online game developers in China with a history of successful game titles including Eudemons Online, Heroes Evolved and Conquer Online. In recent years, NetDragon has also started to scale its online education business on the back of management's vision to create the largest global online learning community, and to bring the "classroom of the future" to every school around the world. http://www.netdragon.com/

For investor enquiries, please contact:
NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited
Ms. Maggie Zhou
Senior Director of Investor Relations
Tel.: +852 2850 7266 / +86 591 8390 2825
Email: maggiezhou@nd.com.cn
Website: ir.nd.com.cn

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