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Eleven persons in custody who completed the Professional Taxi Driver (Taxi Written Test) training at Pik Uk Prison were presented with certificates today (March 18) in recognition of their efforts during the training and achieving a good result.
Officiating at the presentation ceremony, Mr Cheng Hak-wo, who is registered as a "caring employer" in the taxi industry under employment services, encouraged the graduates to pursue lifelong learning and build up proper values in life. He acknowledged the Correctional Services Department's (CSD) custodial work in protecting the community and facilitating the smooth reintegration of persons in custody into society upon their release through the provision of rehabilitation services.
The CSD's Superintendent (Vocational Training), Ms Yeung Yin-miu, said that the department has been collaborating with various training organisations to provide market-oriented vocational training courses that enhance the employability skills of persons in custody so that they can find self-esteem through work. On behalf of the CSD, she also thanked the Employees Retraining Board and the Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention for their efforts in course arrangement and coordination. She added that under a special arrangement made by the Transport Department, the candidates were allowed to sit for the written examination in a penal institution for a taxi driving licence. Those on the course also received training in "integrity", "driving attitude" and "capability to deal with a sudden occurrence" with the aim of producing quality taxi drivers who would be able to find a relevant job after release as quickly as possible.
Among the graduates was Ah Choi (not his real name), who will be released by the end of next year. He said it was the encouragement from the CSD staff and his family that made him overcome difficulties in order to study again. He added that he would start a new life after release and attempt to find a job in the taxi industry. He also gave a vote of thanks on behalf of all graduates and appealed for public support for rehabilitated persons.
The CSD offers 39 market-oriented vocational training courses to adult persons in custody -- covering construction, engineering, catering, retail, commerce, tourism, beauty, logistics, laundry services, information technology, environmental services, health care and transport -- to enhance their professional skills.
Ends/Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Issued at HKT 18:40
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