The 6th edition of the Business China Youth Forum (BCYF) will take place at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, alongside the 16th edition of the FutureChina Global Forum (FCGF). More than 1,000 participants are expected to join the event onsite and virtually, including attendees from 22 Chinese cities, marking the forum’s largest turnout since its launch in 2019.
Expanding opportunities for youth
This year’s forum, themed “The World in Flux: Youth Navigating in an Age of Uncertainty”, will see the signing of new Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) between Business China and Singapore’s five polytechnics. The agreements will expand collaboration on China-ready programmes, building on existing initiatives that prepare students and educators for cross-border opportunities.
The MOUs support youth participation in the Singapore-China Youth Interns Exchange Scheme (YES), which is backed by both governments. Under YES, eligible students can take part in internships of up to six months in China, gaining first-hand experience in its business and technology sectors. Business China will also provide cultural orientation, workplace guidance, and practical advice to help students adapt.
Beyond internships, the partnership covers the Business China Youth Knowledge (BCYK) programme and the Youth Leaders Programme (YLP), offering workshops, overseas study trips, and dialogue sessions with industry experts. Faculty members will also benefit from immersion trips and short-term attachments designed to deepen their understanding of China.
Building China-ready talent
The agreements will be launched by Business China CEO Kwek Poh Heok together with leaders from Nanyang Polytechnic, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Republic Polytechnic, Singapore Polytechnic, and Temasek Polytechnic. Goh Pei Ming, Minister of State for Home Affairs and Social and Family Development, will attend as Guest-of-Honour.
Business China said the expanded partnership aims to nurture a new generation of China-ready students and educators, creating stronger connections between Singapore and China. These efforts are intended to widen pathways for youth exchange and joint opportunities in education, culture, and business.
Youth-led discussions on global issues
The BCYF is organised by a team of youth volunteers aged 17 to 25, many of whom have previously taken part in Business China programmes. They were directly involved in curating the topics for the forum’s three panel discussions.
The first panel, “The Rise of AI Companions and Humanoid Robots”, will explore the role of AI and robotics in healthcare, eldercare, and education, while addressing ethical concerns. The second panel, “Beyond the Arena: Sports, Branding and Identity”, will examine the intersection of sports, branding, and digital platforms, as well as how athletes balance authenticity with commercialisation. The third panel, “Connecting the World and Future: The Digital Era of Young Entrepreneurs”, will focus on how young entrepreneurs can use e-commerce, social media, and AI to build global businesses.
Highlighting the importance of youth-led initiatives, Goh Pei Ming said, “I am encouraged to see youths actively participating in the forum to learn about new trends and appreciate diverse cultures. Initiatives such as the Business China Youth Forum undertaken by Business China nurture a pool of young people who understand Singapore, China and global issues. In a time when the world is undergoing massive transformation and changes, the ability to navigate through uncertainties, forge mutual understanding, and build bridges of friendship and cooperation is of utmost importance.”
Business China CEO Kwek Poh Heok added, “In today’s rapidly changing landscape, it is essential for youth to adapt, engage and learn. These qualities will help youth bridge the technological, generational and cultural divides many are experiencing today. I am heartened to see so many young people step forward to shape this forum, reflecting their commitment to enhance their understanding of the world and to develop partnerships. Business China is proud to support our youth, equipping them with the experiences and insights they need to navigate uncertainty and contribute to the future of Singapore-China relations.”
