The 33 SSLOs, supervised by Police Community Relations Officers, received training in July and August to prepare themselves for the challenging mission ahead.

Firstly, they attended a three-day course organised by the Police Public Relations Branch to learn about the problems of triads in schools, current narcotics problems amongst youth, counselling techniques and other related issues. Experts from the Education and Social Welfare Departments were also invited to share their views and experiences regarding the handling of unruly students' behaviour.

The Training Development Bureau then held a four-day course to help the SSLOs develop effective presentation and communication skills including speech delivery and the use of visual aids.

Senior Superintendent Public Relations Alan Fan Sik-ming stressed that the objective of the Enhanced School Liaison Programme was to maintain a close working relationship among school authorities, social workers and parents in a co-ordinated effort to prevent student involvement in criminal activities.

"Each SSLO, with an average of 15 secondary schools to monitor and advise, is responsible for maintaining close contact with principals, discipline masters, social workers and parents to study possible ways of handling problematic students," said SSP Fan.

"We hope that the SSLOs, utilising the positive image of Police officers, can help youngsters by instilling a sense of self-discipline and positive values through a variety of activities such as group discussions. It is important to give youths at risk appropriate assistance and counselling before problems worsen."

Kowloon City District Sergeant Pang Yiu-hon said that he applied for the new post because he believed the job would be very challenging and different from routine police work. "I have worked as a Uniformed Branch officer for 23 years and have come across many problematic youth. I believe my work experience will assist me to help youngsters stay away from possible danger or crime."

Another SSLO, Central District Sergeant Chan Yuk-kwan said that the training he received during these two months had helped him develop a better understanding of youngsters' psychology. "To maintain effective communication with students, I have paid special attention to their favourite activities and I am planning to enrol in some other related courses to better equip myself for the job."



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