Speakers
Workshop Session
The Hong Kong Correctional Services Department (HKCSD) is committed to providing professional and humane correctional services that prioritize offender rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Through purposeful activities, education, and training, HKCSD aims to promote a culture of respect, responsibility, and productivity that positively impacts the overall correctional environment. HKCSD has adopted a two-pronged approach to create more opportunities for upward mobility for rehabilitated persons, focusing on further studies and employment. This approach has contributed to a significant decrease in the recidivism rate in Hong Kong over the past two decades. HKCSD offers market-oriented vocational training programs that equip persons in custody with practical skills and knowledge to facilitate successful reintegration, with high passing rates and employment rates after release. Education programs also promote a sense of purpose and achievement, boosting self-esteem and contributing to a positive self-identity for persons in custody. While young persons in custody are required to take half-day education mandatorily, adult persons in custody are also encouraged to participate voluntarily in self-study or distance learning for tertiary education. To this, HKCSD had signed MOUs with universities in Hong Kong to provide supports in various aspect aiming to foster continual education in prison settings. Additionally, the department provides psychological services to assist young persons in custody to develop positive values and mindsets, strengthening psychological resilience and emotion regulation. Overall, HKCSD's commitment to purposeful activity, education, and training has led to a decline in recidivism rates and has contributed to a safer and more inclusive society.