The Funding Scheme for Workplace English Training has received 63 applications from employers in the first six months of the year.

They are seeking nearly $1 million to commission in-house English training tailor-made for their 800 employees.

Chairman of the Standing Committee on Language Education & Research Michael Tien is pleased with the application figures.

"This shows that employers are keen to upkeep their employees' English standard which is essential in maintaining Hong Kong's competitiveness. In view of this encouraging response, the committee has decided to inject another $3 million from the Language Fund to further the scheme," he said.

23,000 helped

The scheme was launched in 2000 to subsidise employees who need to use English in the workplace to receive training.

At the end of June, nearly 23,000 workers had attained the relevant benchmarks and received their training grants, involving a total disbursement of $38 million.

Application forms and guidelines for applying can be downloaded at the campaign's website.

The Office of the Workplace English Campaign has been organising seminars and exhibitions targeting human resources personnel and owners of small-and-medium enterprises. Click here for the exhibition schedule. Enquiries can be made on 2186 8800 or via email yoshiko@emb.gov.hk.