Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Hon. Dr. Horace Chang, describes the slate of new correctional officers as “guardians of security and agents of change” at their Passing Out Parade Ceremony at the Carl Rattray Staff College, in Runaway Bay, St Ann on Friday (August 15).
Issuing a charge to the ninety-eight (98) newly minted correctional officers, Minister Chang said they should “wear their uniform with pride, serve with integrity and never forget that the work you do is for Jamaica”.
The security minister also said that correctional officers play a vital part in shaping justice, cohesion and safety for the nation and reminded his audience that “national security is not a separate corner of society but is the foundation upon which every other ambition for Jamaica rests”.
In highlighting Jamaica’s transformative journey in corrections between 2016 and 2025, including the launch and recent update of the National Correctional Services Policy, the security minister noted that the policy framework repositioned corrections as a human rights-based, rehabilitation-focused and reintegration-driven system.
In addition, Minister Chang spoke of plans for a modern facility to replace the age-old Tower Street Correctional Centre at downtown Kingston, while hailing the upgrade at the Tamarind Farm facility, where a new 300-inmate block was constructed.
“Your daily acts of discipline, fairness and empathy are essential to building public trust and national resilience,” the Minister Chang stated.
According to the security minister, significant strides have been made in corrections to include successful rehabilitation, expanded vocational training, counselling and the establishment of transitional housing.
“These efforts have led to more inmates earning certification, securing employment and reintegrating successfully into the society,” Minister Chang said, while calling on correctional officers to uphold both security and dignity.
He told the graduates, “your duty is not only to enforce the law but to honour the humanity of those in your care”.
The Minister drew on comparisons to global models in Norway and the Dominican Republic to affirm Jamaica’s growing reputation as a leader in correctional reform.
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