People’s
Daily reported on October 18 that 97.5 percent of prisoners
in Shandong Province were awarded with vocational certificates
this year by the Vocational Training Center for Prisoners,
which was set up in 2002.
The
various centers are equipped with training tools and facilities
including computers and books.
One
prisoner who recently obtained his national vocational
certificate for machine mending commented that he feels
his future is full of hope.
“Today
I got this certificate and I mastered a craft. When I
leave this place, I can support myself and I can live
a new life. I feel very happy…” he said.
According
to the report, Shandong Province offers about 40 vocational
training courses for prisoners, including home appliance
technology, IT, and machine mending. From 2000 to 2004,
there have been 64,257 prisoners that obtained vocational
certificates.
Under
the guidance and supervision of the relevant government
departments, special employment arrangements have been
set up in some prisons. Prisoners can sign contracts in
advance and start work shortly after their release.
According
to statistics, since January this year more than 700 prisoners
have signed labor contracts.
Mr.
Guo, who completed his prison term in May with two vocational
certificates of senior locksmith and special work operator,
got a well-paid position in a private enterprise after
he was released.
“Without
these two certificates, I couldn't even have knocked on
the ‘door’ of this enterprise,” he said
with a proud smile on his face.
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