Press Release

Persons in custody at Stanley Prison attain good examination results

     Fifty-eight persons in custody at the Correctional Services Department (CSD)'s Stanley Prison were presented with certificates at a ceremony today (January 21) in recognition of their continuous efforts in pursuing further studies.

     In 2014, 214 persons in custody at Stanley Prison passed 192 papers of various academic courses and public examinations organised by the Open University of Hong Kong (OUHK), City and Guilds International Limited, and the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry International Qualifications. Subjects taken included languages, English for business, business finance, business calculations, bookkeeping and accounts.

     Today's 58 awardees passed 69 papers, achieving a total of 41 distinctions and credits and obtaining 95 university credit points.

     Officiating at the ceremony, the Chairman of the Southern District Fight Crime Committee, Mr Leung Ho-kwan, said that the CSD has long been committed to protecting the public and reducing crime. He added that in addition to custodial work the CSD conducts a variety of rehabilitation schemes in collaboration with community members and non-governmental organisations, and reforms persons in custody through education and vocational training. With the support of the CSD, persons in custody were assisted in their reintegration into society. As the Chairman of Southern District Fight Crime Committee, he said it is his mission to maintain Hong Kong as one of the safest cities in the world through the promotion of crime prevention. Mr Leung noted that this goal coincides with the aim of the CSD's rehabilitation work. He also encouraged the community to support such rehabilitation work and give rehabilitated persons the chance to turn over a new leaf.

     At the ceremony one of the persons in custody shared his experience of rehabilitation. His mother also expressed her joy at seeing the positive changes in her son.

     The CSD and the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong Lay Prison Evangelical Organization have been initiating the Creation and Rehabilitation project at Stanley Prison since 2010. Art activities such as drawing, ceramics, music and drama performances inspire persons in custody to exercise self-reflection, strengthen their discipline and build skills in communication and co-operation with others.

     The project's consultant tutor, Mr James Mark, a veteran theatre practitioner, helped persons in custody at Stanley Prison to stage a drama featuring a touching story. A band formed by persons in custody at Stanley Prison also performed at the ceremony.

     The CSD has long been providing a favourable environment for adult persons in custody that encourages them to pursue further studies. To prepare rehabilitated offenders for their return to the community, Stanley Prison provides courses for them to acquire work-related training and recognition. The Department also helps them attain job-relevant accreditation by applying through the Recognition of Prior Learning Mechanism under the Hong Kong Qualifications Framework in accordance with their working knowledge, skills and experience. Those who have financial difficulties may apply for an education subsidy.

     Also attending the ceremony were the Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Yau Chi-chiu, representatives of non-governmental and community organisations, community leaders and family members of persons in custody.

     Stanley Prison, established in 1937, is a maximum security institution.

Ends

Saturday, January 21, 2015
Issued at HKT 14:53

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Fifty-eight persons in custody at the Correctional Services Department's Stanley Prison were presented with certificates at a ceremony today (January 21) in recognition of their strenuous efforts in pursuing further studies. Photo shows the Chairman of the Southern District Fight Crime Committee, Mr Leung Ho-kwan (front right), presenting certificates to a representative of persons in custody.

Persons in custody stage a drama featuring a touching story.

A band formed by persons in custody at Stanley Prison performs during the ceremony.