Sixty Shek Pik Prison inmates have been presented certificates recognising their academic achievements.

They passed examination papers for the Open University, the Examinations & Assessment Authority and the City & Guilds, and obtained 12 distinctions and credits, and 72 passes.

In the past year, 125 Shek Pik inmates sat for 198 exams. Of the 133 papers passed, 17 were merit papers.

Of the 300 prisoners serving sentences, more than 50 enrolled in courses of the Open University and other academic organisations.

The Correctional Services Department has been providing financial assistance to inmates enrolling in open examinations and courses. Besides the Prisoners' Education Trust Fund, charitable donations established the New Life Foundation and Prisoners' Education Subsidy Fund this year.