Young persons in custody sit for HKDSE Examination for self-enhancement (with photos)

     The results of the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) Examination were released today (July 19). Young persons in custody (PICs) obtained satisfactory results in the examination this year.

     A total of 18 young PICs from Sha Tsui Correctional Institution (STCI), Pik Uk Correctional Institution and Lai King Correctional Institution enrolled in the HKDSE Examination this year. They took a total of 106 examination papers and obtained level 2 or above in 83 papers, or 78.3 per cent of all papers taken. Eight of them met the general entrance requirements for local universities, among whom one candidate at STCI scored 29 marks overall in six subjects taken, with level 5** and 5* in Chinese Language and Liberal Studies respectively.

     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.

     The Superintendent of STCI, Mr Chan Man-yat, said, "Study prepares PICs 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 PICs for the HKDSE Examination is not an easy task, Mr Chan added. In the process, the PICs demonstrate their determination and perseverance in overcoming learning difficulties. Family support as well as guidance and assistance from the staff and teachers of the Correctional Services Department (CSD) are also very important to them. He encouraged young PICs to continue to seize the chance to study and strive for a better future.

To facilitate continuing education of PICs, the CSD earlier invited representatives of the Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) and eight University Grants Committee-funded universities to attend an information sharing session on tertiary education programmes at correctional institutions to provide information on distance learning programmes offered by the HKMU and tertiary education programmes for more than 100 young PICs, enabling them to have clearer learning directions and strengthening their determination to pursue university education.

     The CSD has provided education to help young PICs below 21 years of age to gain accredited qualifications and develop positive values, hoping that they can further their studies, find jobs and reintegrate into society after release.