Press Release

Lo Wu inmates receive academic certificates

     A total of 77 female inmates were presented with certificates at a ceremony held at Lo Wu Correctional Institution (LWCI) today (March 28) in recognition of their academic achievements.

     As part of its continuous efforts to rehabilitate offenders, the Correctional Services Department (CSD) encourages adult offenders to pursue studies after their work. It provides assistance, through CSD staff and volunteers, to those who voluntarily participate in educational activities.

     Inmates can apply for financial assistance from the Prisoners' Education Trust Fund for courses offered by external bodies including tertiary education institutions and public examinations leading to qualifications.

     At the ceremony today, the 77 inmates obtained a total of 116 certificates through various courses and public examinations organised by the Open University of Hong Kong, the Employees Retraining Board, City and Guilds International and LCCI International Qualifications.

     The certificates covered a variety of subjects including Putonghua, accounting, computer concepts, business relations and communications, nutrition and development for children, marketing, nail technician training, retailing, and catering and banquet attendant training.

     Presenting certificates to the inmates, Honorary Member of the Rotary Club of Mid-Level, Hong Kong, Mrs Lisa Cheung, also a long-time supporter of the CSD's rehabilitation work, said the department has long been providing market-oriented vocational training programmes as well as appropriate learning facilities to encourage inmates to participate in learning.

     She said, "Academic achievements can strengthen their determination to turn over a new leaf. They can also acquire vocational skills and recognised qualifications to facilitate their reintegration into society after release."

     Also officiating at the ceremony were the Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Sin Yat-kin; inmates' families; representatives of community organisations; and celebrities.

     Situated at 163 Ho Sheung Heung Road, Sheung Shui, LWCI commenced operation in July 2010. It provides a total capacity of 1 400 penal places for female adult prisoners. Correctional Services Integrated Management is used at the institution with an emphasis on people orientation, operational efficiency, economy of scale, resources management, greening concepts and community networking.

Ends/Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Issued at HKT 19:38

 Honorary Member of the Rotary Club of Mid-Level, Hong Kong, Mrs Lisa Cheung, presents certificates to an inmate representative at a certificate presentation ceremony at Lo Wu Correctional Institution today (March 28).