The Hong Kong government is set to recruit journalism students to intern at mainland Chinese media outlets, as part of a new programme to promote the understanding of China’s development among local youth.

The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau will roll out a new programme in July to provide Hong Kong journalism students with opportunities to be placed at “leading mainland Chinese media outlets,” the bureau chief Alice Mak has announced at the legislature on Wednesday in response to questions from a lawmaker.

A total of 16 students will be recruited for a three-week placement, Mak said, adding that more details will be released in March.

“Through internship, students will be able to gain an in-depth understanding of the media landscape, industry operations and development trends on the Mainland,” Mak said in a written response to a lawmaker.

“It aims to cultivate young talent with enhanced understanding of the country’s development and a professional media perspective.”

In the 2025 Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index, China was ranked 178th out of 180 countries. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists last month, it remains the world’s worst jailer of journalists.

Unlike in Hong Kong, which ranks 140th on the RSF index, mainland China enacts strict internet censorship.

Young Talent Training Programme

The new programme is part of the Young Talent Training Programme (YTTP), launched last year after the city’s leader John Lee called for a programme “to better equip our young people, broaden their international horizons and cultivate a holistic outlook.”

Aside from placements in mainland China, the YTTP also provides internship opportunities at international organisations.