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Inmates of Lo Wu Correctional Institution (LWCI) were presented with certificates in recognition of their efforts made in their continuous pursuit of academic and vocational training over the past year at a ceremony today (March 6).
In 2012, a total of 135 inmates at LWCI obtained 233 certificates in various courses and public examinations, including those organised by the City and Guilds of London Institute, the Employees Retraining Board, the School of Continuing and Professional Studies of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Open University of Hong Kong and other organisations.
Speaking at the certificate presentation ceremony, the Chief Commissioner of the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association, Mrs Josephine Pang, said, "To increase the competitiveness of the inmates and lay a solid foundation for their future employment, Lo Wu Correctional Institution provides a wide range of vocational training courses for the inmates so that they can learn the practical skills required by the market and sit for examinations leading to publicly recognised qualifications in accordance with their own academic standard and experience."
Last year, the institution continued to provide courses on a wide range of subjects, covering commerce and retailing, nail technician training, fundamental computer concepts and keyboard operation, vocational Putonghua, catering and banquet attendant training, and webpage design and basic programming. It also launched various new courses including cosmetician assistant training, digital film editing, retail and product promotion, and laundry assistant training.
The Correctional Services Department has long been providing a conducive environment to encourage inmates to participate in learning. On rehabilitation services, the department encourages adult inmates to pursue studies after their work. Those who have financial difficulty may apply for subsidies for payment of examination fees and distance learning course fees.
Also taking part in the ceremony were the Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Sin Yat-kin; representatives of the North District, Tai Po District, Sha Tin District and Kowloon City District Fight Crime Committees; celebrities; and inmates' families.
LWCI, established in mid-2010, is a medium security institution. It can accommodate up to 1 400 female adult prisoners.
Ends/Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Issued at HKT 18:30
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