Auxiliary Police seek to recruit more undergraduates
The Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Force (HKAPF) held an Auxiliary Police Undergraduate Scheme Open Day at HKAPF Headquarters on November 3 for students from local universities and post-secondary education institutes to learn more about the training and duties of the auxiliary police.
The open day sought to attract more undergraduates to join the auxiliary police to serve the community. Apart from exhibition of police equipment and training, there were demonstrations on tactics and sharing of experience by undergraduate auxiliary police officers with visitors to the event.
HKAPF Commandant Yiu Yeung-lung said that over the years, auxiliary police officers have been using their leisure time outside their principal employment to serve the community and make contributions to the safety and stability of Hong Kong.
He pointed out that more than 1,000 undergraduates from post-secondary education institutions had joined the HKAPF since the undergraduate scheme was launched in 2003. The performances of the young auxiliary police officers showed the scheme is a success, he noted.
"Firstly, the auxiliary police's discipline training is propitious to the personal growth and development of students. Their contact with members of the public through police work will also enhance their inter-personal communication skills as well as analytical ability and resourcefulness.
"Secondly, the auxiliary police provide a good opportunity for young students to serve the community and enhance their sense of belonging and responsibility. They will also share their positive values with their classmates, friends and family members.
"The scheme also provides a new recruitment channel and is conducive to maintaining our strength and capability to provide professional services to the community," Mr Yiu said.
As a result of the success of the scheme, the HKAPF has increased intake of undergraduates from 128 to 192 per year, Mr Yiu added.
Undergraduate auxiliary police recruits will receive 12-week full time training during the summer vacation. The training will cover laws, police practices, procedures, police rules, foot drill, as well as weapon and tactics.
The HKAPF has been supporting the regular police in beat patrol and crowd management for major public events and operations. They also provide services at times of natural disasters or civil emergencies.
Visitors
to the Open Day being briefed on what an Auxiliary Police Officer is
equipped with for the job