TWENTY four inmates having successfully completed a twelve-week training in Anger Management, were recipients of certificates, following a ceremony at the New Amsterdam Prison’s Club, on Penitentiary Walk, in New Amsterdam, Berbice.

The inmates, including Devindra Samwaru, who was found guilty of dousing his son with a flammable liquid, and Andrew Hannibal, a pastor who raped an under aged girl, were amongst those who benefitted  from the programme, aimed at  teaching  them how  to better assess and cope with issues as they arise .

It is also expected that they learn how to contribute successfully, after they would have reintegrated into society upon their release for prison.
Officer in Charge of the New Amsterdam Prison, Superintendent Deodaj Gyandat, in his remarks, said that he was thrilled with the report received from the organisers Solutions Training Consultancy about the conduct of the participants.

Further, he noted that the Ministry of Social Protection is very committed towards the rehabilitation of inmates, and continues to accept and establish programmes of this nature which they believe will allow persons to become changed individuals.

Meanwhile, in her address to the gathering, Secretary of the Solutions Training Consultancy, Ms.  S. McKenzie noted that over the past twelve weeks the agency has had several discussions with the participants, exposing them to cognitive behavioural approaches to emotion management.

McKenzie expressed thanks to the Guyana Prison Service for affording them the opportunity to commence and complete the sessions, whilst urging the penal institution to provide a peaceful environment, which will allow those graduates to make use of their skills and knowledge.

Meanwhile, Devindra Samwaru, while reflecting on his time spent in class, stated that he was privileged to be amongst those graduating; saying that the various classes were exciting and interesting. Samwaru reminded other inmates “to accept the fact that your angry feeling is your reality.” He admitted that prior to attending the anger management classes, he was easily pushed to anger; however, Samwaru commended the organisers, citing that the programme has changed his life meaningfully.

Additionally, Ms. Bristol, Officer in Charge of prisoners’ welfare, expressed her satisfaction to the Solutions Training Consultancy, for undertaking the training and has encouraged the graduates to believe in themselves and make full use of the knowledge gained.

“I know that you guys are inmates… you’ve been incarcerated and what I want to leave with you, is that going back out to society, keep in mind you cannot control the response you receive, but you can always control how you intend to react to that response.” Bristol stated.