The Correctional Services Department (CSD) held the second graduation ceremony of the Ethics College at Pak Sha Wan Correctional Institution today (August 6) to present graduation certificates to persons in custody (PICs) who have completed the Diploma of Applied Education programme.

     All of the second batch of 75 PIC students of the Ethics College, including 60 male PICs from Pak Sha Wan Correctional Institution and 15 female PICs from Lo Wu Correctional Institution, have successfully completed the programme.

     Addressing the graduation ceremony, Head of Charities of the Hong Kong Jockey Club Ms Winnie Ying extended her heartfelt congratulations to the graduates. She expressed her appreciation to the PIC students for their relentless efforts and for overcoming limitations during their studies, demonstrating their determination and ability in pursuing a better future through actions. She said that the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust donated funds to the CSD in 2023 to establish the Jockey Club Education Fund for Rehabilitation to support the operation of the Ethics College and assist PICs in continuing their education. This initiative represents community support for PICs, with the hope that through education, PICs who aspire to pursue studies can equip themselves and reintegrate into society.

     The Vice President (Research and Institutional Advancement) of the Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Professor Ricky Kwok, teachers from the Li Ka Shing School of Professional and Continuing Education of the Hong Kong Metropolitan University, and volunteer mentors shared their thoughts on stage and encouraged PICs to maintain their passion for learning and a positive attitude, so that they can contribute to society with the knowledge and skills they have acquired.

     Moreover, a band composed of PICs delivered a music performance at the ceremony to express their gratitude to their families and correctional officers for their support in the course of PICs' rehabilitation.

     In the sharing session, a PIC student expressed his thankfulness to his family members for their unwavering love and to correctional officers for their encouragement, which enabled him to regain his resolve and commit to his studies. He also thanked the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust for its support, as well as teachers and volunteers for their guidance, enabling him to successfully complete the course.

Ends/Wednesday, August 6, 2025
Issued at HKT 19:29

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