Persons in custody at Tai Tam Gap Correctional Institution (TGCI) of the Correctional Services Department (CSD) were presented with certificates at a ceremony today (March 22) in recognition of their efforts and study achievements.

     In the past year, 109 persons in custody sat for various academic and vocational examinations, including examinations organised by the Open University of Hong Kong; City and Guilds; the Vocational Training Council; the Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention, Hong Kong; and the Construction Industry Council. The courses covered the subjects of computer studies, English language, hairdressing, basic Chinese cooking theory and practice, basic laundry skills, the Intermediate Trade Test for Electrical Wireman and International Award in Barista Skills, with persons in custody achieving 268 passes including 12 merits. The 15 persons in custody presented with certificates today passed a total of 32 papers.

     Officiating at the ceremony, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Pok Oi Hospital, Mrs Chan Li Lei, said that Pok Oi Hospital and the CSD are both striving to support education for the young generation, and that schools run by Pok Oi adhere to the Pok Oi Hospital motto "We Love, We Care, We Serve" to nurture the young generation. In addition, the CSD conducts appropriate rehabilitation schemes through the provision of education and market-oriented vocational training to young persons in custody, helping them prepare for their reintegration into society. Also, to send a positive message to youngsters, secondary students at Pok Oi Hospital schools were also arranged to participate in Rehabilitation Pioneer Project activities of the CSD.

     During the ceremony, a representative of persons in custody spoke of his determination to turn over a new leaf and further his studies at the institution under the support of CSD staff and his family, and his father expressed his joy at seeing the positive changes in his son. A music group formed by persons in custody of TGCI sang to convey gratitude to their families and CSD staff, and to express hope for a better future.

     Also attending the ceremony were the Assistant Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Tang Ping-ming, representatives of non-governmental and community organisations, community leaders and parents of the certificate recipients.

     TGCI provides half-day education programmes and half-day vocational training for the young persons in custody to help them rehabilitate and prepare for their reintegration into society.

Ends/Wednesday, March 22, 2017
Issued at HKT 15:00

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