The results of the 2020 Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) Examination were released today (July 22). Young persons in custody obtained satisfactory results in the examination this year.
A total of nine young persons in custody from Pik Uk Correctional Institution, Cape Collinson Correctional Institution and Lai King Correctional Institution enrolled in this year's HKDSE Examination. They took a total of 44 examination papers and obtained level 2 or above in 30 papers, or 68.2 per cent of all papers taken. A candidate at Cape Collinson Correctional Institution who scored the highest result, with 20 marks overall in the six papers taken, met the general entrance requirements for local universities. A candidate at Pik Uk Correctional Institution, who obtained 23 marks in six subjects but only attained level 2 in English last year, was determined to retake the English subject and finally achieved level 3 in the examination this year, enabling him to meet the general entrance requirements for local universities. He decided to take a social work course if admitted to university, and would make use of his personal experience to help people in society.
The exams sat included the four core subjects of Chinese Language, English Language, Mathematics and Liberal Studies as well as the two electives of Economics and Tourism and Hospitality Studies.
Education has long been provided by the Correctional Services Department (CSD) to help young persons in custody further their studies, find jobs and reintegrate into society after their release.
Assistant Commissioner (Rehabilitation) of the CSD, Mr Wan Ming-ki, said, "Study prepares persons in custody for their reintegration into society, and academic qualifications obtained in public examinations improve their chances of finding jobs or furthering their studies."
Preparation of young persons in custody for the HKDSE Examination is not an easy task, Mr Wan added. Most of them only attained an academic level of junior secondary before entering the institution, yet manage to complete the three-year curriculum in less than a year. In the process, the persons in custody demonstrate their determination and perseverance in overcoming learning difficulties. Family support as well as guidance and assistance from CSD staff and teachers are also very important to them. In addition to gaining accredited qualifications, it is imperative that young persons in custody are able to establish positive attitudes and values through participation in examinations, Mr Wan said. He encouraged young persons in custody to continue to seize the chance to study and strive for a better future. He also called on the public to offer rehabilitated offenders equal opportunities and support their reintegration into society.
The department provides a half-day education programme and half-day vocational training for young persons in custody under the age of 21. Guidance and assistance are also in place for adult persons in custody, who are encouraged to participate in studies on a voluntary basis.
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