Earlier this month, the Force's ITTC was relocated to its new premises at the Police Training School in Aberdeen. The new teaching block was completely refurbished and boasts state-of-the-art equipment and purpose-built classrooms.

Speaking at the official opening ceremony of the Centre, Assistant Comissioner (Training), Mr David Thomas, said that IT was integral to modern day police work and helped to maintain Hong Kong's reputation as one of the safest cities in the world.

"The Force is committed to the introduction of new technologies as part of the Three Year Strategic Action Plan and improved facilities such as this new training centre demonstrably reinforce this commitment," Mr Thomas said.

He disclosed that in the past five years, over 30,000 officers had passed through the portals of the Information Technology Training Centre at its former premises at the Canton Road Government Offices.

He continued: "Information technology, learning and progress lead us to higher standards of professionalism and change is inevitable."

Pointing out that the new classrooms had a bright and airy "feel" which was much more conducive to a good learning environment, he said: "Whilst first impressions count for a lot, it's not just the outward appearance that matters.

I am pleased to say there has been a great deal of modification to the "back of stage" too.

"The introduction of state-of-the-art classroom technology, courtesy of the Save to Invest Account, will now enable for more interaction between trainer and trainee than previously."

He thanked Architectural Services and Electrical and Mechanical Services Departments, as well as the Force's Planning and Development, Communications and Information Technology branches for their efforts in ensuring the timely completion of the centre.

Purpose built classroom of the new IT training centre