[Blog] Robot Support Assistant: A New Career Pathway for SEN Youth in the Tech Industry
As Hong Kong’s technology industry continues its rapid expansion, it is not only opening new job categories but also creating inclusive opportunities for youth with Special Educational Needs (SEN). For those seeking to break into the job market, Generation Hong Kong’s free Robot Support Assistant (Employability Booster) training programme is an empowering pathway to develop professional skills and build a career with confidence.
In this blog, we explore the challenges SEN youth face in employment, the rising demand for robotics and automation talent, and how Generation’s course helps SEN youth realize their full potential.
Overcoming Barriers: The Challenges and Opportunities for SEN Youth
Employment Challenges and Positive Momentum
In Hong Kong, many SEN youth, including those with dyslexia, autism (ASD), or ADHD, face significant challenges when entering the workforce. These conditions often affect communication, concentration, or learning styles, making traditional hiring processes and roles less accessible.
But change is happening. As society grows more aware of inclusive hiring, employers are becoming more open to understanding the unique strengths of SEN youth. The rise of the tech industry, particularly in robotics, offers a more skills-based pathway, one that aligns with the logical, structured, and task-oriented thinking in which many SEN youth excel.
Government statistics reveal a growing SEN population in mainstream schools, with numbers nearly doubling from 33,830 in 2013-2014 to 64,220 in 2023-2024. Encouragingly, recent studies (MWYO x Fortress Hill Methodist Secondary School) found that industry internships can positively reshape employer perceptions of SEN capabilities. Supervisors’ post-internship ratings of SEN youth improved by 10% to 17% across various competencies.
Learner Story: Sunny’s Breakthrough
Sunny, a learner on the autism spectrum, enrolled in Generation’s Robot Support Assistant programme and is now employed at Robocore Technology Ltd. His exceptional problem-solving and coding abilities quickly secured him a pivotal role within the team. His success not only demonstrates the programme’s effectiveness but has also transformed his employer’s perspective on hiring individuals with SEN. [Read Sunny’s Story]
Future-Proof Careers: Robotics and SEN Talent
Tech Development Brings New Opportunities
According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, 58% of companies see robotics and automation as major drivers of business transformation. While automation may displace some roles, it also creates a surge in technical positions, roles that emphasize process understanding, logic, and precision.
This transformation plays to the strengths of many SEN youth, offering roles where technical competency outweighs social complexity. In Hong Kong, we see more use of delivery robots, shopping mall robots, and smart services, leading to increased demand for operators, testers, and maintenance personnel.
Compared to traditional industries, tech careers are more skills-based. For SEN youth, this levels the playing field.
Employer Insight: The Power of Opportunity
Robocore CEO Roy shared: “We found that SEN youth like Sunny not only learn robotics quickly, but also demonstrate impressive problem-solving and productivity.”
What You’ll Learn in the Robot Support Assistant Programme
Generation Hong Kong’s 13-week Robot Support Assistant (Employability Booster) programme is built for SEN youth aged 18–29. The course offers:
Technical Skills:
- Basic robot operation and configuration
- Functional testing
- SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) map construction
- Workplace safety knowledge
Behavioural & Mindset Skills:
- Communication and teamwork
- Problem-solving and time management
- Self-confidence and self-efficacy
Career Development Support:
- CV writing, mock interviews, and job matching
- 1:1 mentorship during and after graduation
- Connection with inclusive employers hiring in robotics and tech
Job Opportunities Upon Graduation:
- Robot Delivery Operator
- Shopping Mall Robot Service Ambassador
- Robot QA Tester (SLAM Assistant)
Funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust and co-organised with The Chinese YMCA College of Careers, this programme is part of the CLAP-TECH Pathway: Star initiative. It supports youth in transitioning from school to a tech-forward career with confidence.
Final Thoughts: Unlocking the Potential of SEN Youth
The rapid rise of robotics is not just a trend, it’s a powerful force for social change. Programmes like Robot Support Assistant equip SEN youth with real-world skills, helping them gain confidence, find purpose, and enter future-focused industries.
If you’re a youth with SEN aged 18–29, or know someone who is, this represents a transformative career opportunity.
📢 Enrol in the FREE 13-week “Robot Support Assistant (Employability Booster)” programme and launch your career in Hong Kong’s tech industry today.