Correctional inmates yielded good results in the Hong Kong Certificate of Education Examination. Inmates' overall pass rate stood at 55% this year compared to 45% last year.

Thirty-three young inmates took 142 examination papers this year and achieved 13 credits and 77 passes. The pass rate was 63% compared to 54% in 2005.

The inmates were from Lai King Training Centre, Pik Uk, Cape Collinson and Tai Tam Gap Correctional Institutions.

Their exam subjects included mathematics, Chinese language, English language, commerce, economics, principles of accounts, word processing and business communication, Chinese history, Putonghua, computer and information technology, and travel and tourism.

Adult pass rate rises

Sixty-three adults from 10 correctional institutions, including Stanley and Shek Pik Prisons, took 93 papers in the exam and obtained four credits and 35 passes. The pass rate for adult inmates was 42% compared to 33% in 2005.

Speaking at a media briefing at the Inmate-Parent Centre at Tai Tam Gap Correctional Institution today, Correctional Services Department Assistant Commissioner for Rehabilitation Yau Chi-chiu said inmates with academic qualifications stood a better chance for further studies and job opportunities upon their release.

Mr Yau said some inmates who obtained good HKCEE results previously are now studying in tertiary institutes, while some have secured jobs with required qualifications.

Inmates encouraged to try their best

He said the department closely monitored job-market opportunities and would continue to provide them with market-oriented vocational training for inmates' smooth re-integration.

He asked inmates to keep up their efforts because they had the same opportunities as others in attaining good results, despite the fact that they were in correctional institutions.