Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security, the Hon. Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn says the Government of Jamaica continues to invest in the transformative programmes within the correctional facilities to aid the inmates reintegration into society.
The Minister was speaking at the Awards and Recognition Ceremony for inmates at the St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centre today (December 11).
“Each participant has had the invaluable opportunity to acquire skills training in various fields including but not limited to, tailoring, carpentry, welding, technology and entrepreneurship, 4H-Agro processing and data operations”, she noted.
The State Minister added that the educational and vocational training offered is not limited to personal development but represent essential components for successful reintegration.
“The National Rehabilitation Strategy recognises the pivotal role of vocational training in the reintegration process, acknowledging its importance in economic, social, and community re-engagement,” she highlighted.
While addressing the awardees, the State Minister highlighted some of the 2023 academic and social achievements of the inmates and noted that their achievements “symbolise resilience, determination, and the unwavering spirit to strive for excellence even in the face of adversity.”
Over 80 inmates at the St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centre were awarded for their outstanding academic and vocational achievements. For 2023, inmates at the facility completed Associate Degrees in Business Administration, secured passes in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examinations, and received certification in carpentry, welding, tailoring among other areas.
The Ministry of National Security continues to provide consistent support to the Department of Correctional Services in implementing programmes that will aid in the rehabilitation and reintegration process of inmates back into society.
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