English course helps prepare convicts for outside world

In December, Shanghai Women's Prison completed its first semester of oral English classes. The course, which is intended to better prepare the inmates for life after prison, is expected to continue this year.

Initially, 20 inmates with no prior knowledge of English took part in the six-month course, and 16 completed the semester.

After the course, one inmate wrote a letter in English to the teacher and prison staff.