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Young inmates obtained satisfactory results in the first Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) Examination, the Assistant Commissioner (Rehabilitation) of the Correctional Services Department (CSD), Mr Tang Ping-ming, said today (July 20).
Commenting on the results, Mr Tang said education provided by the CSD helps young inmates further their studies, find jobs and reintegrate into society after release.
The department enrolled a total of 10 young inmates, four from Pik Uk Correctional Institution and six from Cape Collinson Correctional Institution, to take 60 examination papers in the HKDSE Examination 2012. They obtained examination results of level 2 or above in 37 papers, including one paper with level 5*, three papers with level 4 and nine papers with level 3.
Subjects the inmates studied included four core subjects of Chinese Language, English Language, Mathematics and Liberal Studies, as well as two electives of Economics and Tourism and Hospitality Studies.
Noting that employment is one of the hurdles inmates would encounter after release, Mr Tang said academic qualifications would enhance their chance to compete for jobs and further their studies.
"The CSD is committed to providing every opportunity for inmates to equip themselves academically and assisting them to attain accredited qualifications. We also work closely with our partners in the community to offer them market-oriented vocational training in preparation for their smooth reintegration into the community," he said.
"To keep in line with the development of education services, the CSD initiated the New Senior Secondary curriculum in the Pik Uk and Cape Collinson correctional institutions in 2010 and 2011 respectively to help young inmates sit for the HKDSE Examination in 2012," he added.
Mr Tang encouraged inmates to keep up their efforts in study to attain good results, as they have the same study opportunities in correctional institutions as other school students.
He also called on the public to give inmates and rehabilitated offenders equal opportunities and accept as well as support their reintegration into society.
The department provides half-day compulsory education programme and half-day vocational training for young offenders under the age of 2l. Guidance and assistance are in place for adult offenders who participate in studies on a voluntary basis.
Ends/Friday, July 20, 2012
Issued at HKT 16:55
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