The Corrections Department says it is pushing more prisoners to attempt and complete qualifications while behind bars.
More than 4000 prisoners gained certificates in trades last year, including in plumbing and timber processing.
Inmates learning trades while in jail Photo: RNZ
Department spokesperson Tracey Tangihaere says in the past, some people haven't completed the certificates because the department loses track of them as they move around the prison system.
"In this particular strategy that we are attempting, it's about tracking the offender and ensuring that we are supporting their completion of qualification."
Tracey Tangihaere says prisoners who have qualifications are being given jobs once released.
