AS Watson and Hang Seng University ink deal to nurture young talents

AS Watson Group and the Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (HSUHK) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to offer scholarships, internships and a “store manager for a day” experience to local university students as part of the retail group's efforts to nurture young talents. 

This is the first time the AS Watson Group is signing a comprehensive MoU to partner with a local university. The collaboration aims to realise the potential of the new generation, help students apply theory and knowledge in practical work environments, and cultivate more management talent for the retail industry.

The agreement was signed by Simon Ho (pictured right), president of HSUHK, and Malina Ngai (pictured left), group chief operating officer, AS Watson Group and CEO, AS Watson (Asia & Europe).

The collaboration will cover a variety of opportunities for students. The early careers programme will provide short-term workplace experiences for first and second-year HSUHK students, and to help young talents gain early frontline retail management experience, students will have the opportunity to be a “store manager for a day”.

Moreover, AS Watson Group will offer its internship programme, through which HSUHK students can work on its business initiatives in Hong Kong, mainland China and overseas. Students will also be able to receive industrial training, experience job shadowing alongside senior management, and have opportunities to be mentored. Return offers will be given to students with stellar performances during their internships.

To further develop talent, a scholarship programme will be offered to outstanding HSUHK students who pursue studies in fields that align with AS Watson Group’s focus areas. AS Watson Group will also organise company visits for HSUHK’s staff and students to enhance their understanding of industry practices. Additionally, AS Watson Group and HSUHK will launch joint applied research projects.

The collaboration also places importance on joint applied research projects. Students from HSUHK will utilise theoretical knowledge and scientific methods to develop solutions and recommendations for the AS Watson Group’s significant business issues.

Ngai said, “Last year, the group announced its commitment to providing 200,000 job opportunities and five million hours of training for young people globally by 2030, specifically targeting youth in our global workforce to embrace the future. Through this collaboration, we aim to provide students from different levels at HSUHK with more learning and practical experience opportunities, enabling them to acquire a deeper understanding of the retail industry, nurture their talents, and equip them to become future retail leaders.”

Ho said: “Through this collaboration, we believe that we can nurture more young professionals with critical thinking, innovative minds, caring attitudes, moral values and social responsibility. Together, we can also nurture more future leaders for the retail industry, and in doing so, propel our society forward.”

MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out to AS Watson Group for more information. 

Don't miss: A.S. Watson and Amorepacific join forces to expand reach of K-beauty brands

Back in June, AS Watson Group and South Korea’s beauty company Amorepacific Group signed an agreement to further strengthen the collaboration between the two companies to entice customers around Asia with K-beauty.

As part of the strengthened partnership, AS Watson Group and Amorepacific Group will collaborate to introduce more derma and premium skincare brands to AS Watson’s customers in Asia and Europe, such as illiyoon and Aestura. This partnership aims to expand the reach of these brands and provide customers with even more innovative and effective skincare options.

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