In a significant milestone for rehabilitation and education, four inmates at Stanley Prison, under the Correctional Services Department (CSD), were awarded degrees by Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) at a certificate presentation ceremony held today (8 January). Among the recipients was an inmate who became the first in Hong Kong to be awarded a Doctor of Education (EdD) by HKMU.
The ceremony was attended by Ir Dr Conrad Wong Tin-cheung, HKMU Council Chairman, Prof. Paul Lam Kwan-sing, HKMU President, and other university representatives. Prof. Andy Chin Chi-on, Dean of the School of Education and Languages, joined Prof. Lam in presenting the EdD to the inmate student.
The doctoral graduate, who has spent over 20 years studying behind bars, first completed a Bachelor of Social Sciences and later a Master of Education with HKMU. Demonstrating remarkable determination, he continued his academic journey to pursue a doctoral degree.
Upon receiving his doctorate, the inmate expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am deeply thankful to my family and the CSD for their unwavering support over the years, which enabled me to persevere and complete my programme. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to HKMU for their consistent guidance and support, which made it possible for me to achieve this milestone.”
HKMU has long been a pioneer in providing continuous learning and higher education opportunities for prison inmates, helping them rebuild positive values and prepare for reintegration into society. Prof. Lam highlighted the challenges faced by inmate students, noting, “Pursuing education in correctional institutions requires immense dedication and resilience. Today, we celebrate the fruits of their hard work and commitment to learning despite adversity.”
He further emphasized the importance of societal support, saying, “Let us not forget that there are inmates who are committed to learning. I hope all sectors of society will continue to support HKMU and other institutions in providing resources and assistance to inmate students, helping them pursue and complete their studies, and ultimately reintegrate into society.”
Since 1990, HKMU has been the only university in Hong Kong offering distance degree programmes to persons in custody. To date, 1,540 inmate students have enrolled in the university, with 296 degrees awarded to 190 students, including 30 postgraduate degrees, 123 bachelor’s degrees, and 143 associate degrees.
In October 2022, HKMU signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the CSD to enhance support for inmate education. This includes increased financial assistance, credit transfers, and programme articulation, ensuring a more comprehensive educational pathway for inmates.
Additionally, HKMU's Li Ka Shing School of Professional and Continuing Education (LiPACE) has collaborated with the CSD since 2023 to offer one-year, full-time Diploma of Applied Education Programmes for the “Ethics College.” Established by the CSD, the college supports inmates in continuous learning. Some of the first batch of graduates have since progressed to the Associate of General Studies programme, tailored to meet their educational needs. HKMU instructors have also conducted face-to-face classes at Lo Wu Correctional Institution, Pak Sha Wan Correctional Institution, and Pik Uk Prison.
The achievements of these inmate students underscore the transformative power of education. By providing access to higher education, HKMU and the CSD are not only empowering individuals but also contributing to a more inclusive and rehabilitative society.
As the first inmate to earn a doctorate from HKMU, the EdD graduate’s journey serves as an inspiring testament to the potential for growth and redemption, even in the most challenging circumstances.