A total of 41 young offenders have won hope for a brighter future after passing academic exams while inside the maximum security Pik Uk Correctional Institution.
One of the prisoners, Ah Pi, who is serving a 7.5-year sentence for robbery, said he wanted to turn a new leaf by becoming an accountant after studying behind bars. The 17-year-old earned credits in English and mathematics in the Hong Kong Certificate of Education Examination.
'I tried my best and I'm happy with my results,' he said. 'Education is very important for your future. If I study hard now, then after my release, I can further my education and find a good job.'
The inmates at the Clear Water Bay institution passed exams in the HKCEE, the Pitman Examination and exams organised by the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Ah Pi, who is originally from Taiwan, came to Hong Kong as a primary school student. He once ranked in the top five in his secondary school but could not concentrate and wanted desperately to make money.
'There were too many distractions,' he said. 'I tried to get a job but couldn't and I was very unhappy and wanted to make money . . . that's when I made this mistake.