Singaporean youths can intern in China for up to six months under government-led scheme administered by Business China.

SUZHOU, 28 JULY 2023 – The Singapore-China Youth Interns Exchange Scheme (YES)(YES青年实习交流计划) was launched in Suzhou, China, on Friday (28 July) at a ceremony attended by government representatives from both countries.

Under YES, up to 500 Singaporean youths and 500 Chinese youths will be able to participate in internship programmes in the other's country for up to six months. YES marks the first bilateral internship exchange scheme that Singapore has inked with another country. Singapore is also the first Asian country with which China has signed such an agreement.

The scheme will allow Singaporean youths to gain experience working in China, and a deeper appreciation of its economy and rich culture. It will also enable them to foster new friendships and ties. Similarly, Chinese youths will be able to gain a better understanding of Singapore and build networks here.

YES is led by Singapore’s Ministry of Education (MOE) and China’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (MOHRSS). Business China will administer the scheme in Singapore.

The launch ceremony in Suzhou was held at Suzhou Industrial Park and attended by Mr Peter Tan, Singapore’s Ambassador to China, Ms Melissa Khoo, Deputy Secretary (Higher Education & Skills) of MOE, Mr Ho Chee Hin, Chief Executive Officer of Business China, and Ms Liang Yi, Deputy Director of GoEast - Business China’s youth programmes division.

The Chinese delegation present included Mr Lv Yulin, Director General, International Cooperation Department of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. Mr Zha Yingdong, Vice Mayor, Suzhou Municipal People’s Government, as well as representatives from MOHRSS, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance, and other government officials.

Mr Ho said: “The success of any new programme relies on the hard work of all stakeholders. We are confident that with our collective dedication, YES will eventually develop into a powerful platform that empowers and nurtures a pool of bilingual and bicultural talents who can make a lasting and positive economic impact between Singapore and China.”

Youth participants can sign up for the scheme by applying online through the YES website. Business China will work with the host companies to handle the logistical and administrative arrangements, including visa applications, to ensure a seamless transition for the interns. To date, more than 100 companies to offer over 200 internship opportunities for youths under YES. 

 Annex A 

Name and designation of delegates in the photos: