AS part of continuous efforts to prepare prisoners for a life after incarceration, 30 inmates of the New Amsterdam Prison will soon benefit from a 12-15 week digital skills training programme.
Completion of the programme is expected to aid in the rehabilitation and social transformation of the 15 males and 15 females, who were selected.

This was confirmed on Monday by Director of Prisons (ag), Nicklon Elliot.
“The idea of the exercise is to make the [prisoners] computer literate. The training will prepare them for the use of technology while they’re incarcerated, and they will be able to implement it once they’re discharged from prison,” he explained.

While the prisoners will be receiving skills training in areas such as conflict resolution, the digital programme will focus on key areas including, but not limited to Basic Mathematics, Basic English, Leadership Skills and Social Behaviour, Fundamentals of Digital Skills, Web Design and Development, and Entrepreneurship.

The programme will also reward participants for their use of technology and innovative skills.
Elliot disclosed that the exercise came about as a joint initiative among consultants of the Citizens Strengthening Security Programme (CSSP), the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the Avasant Foundation, and the Government of Guyana, to focus on the prevention and reduction of crime and violence, and public sector and civil society capacity-building.

“The exercise is part of a larger plan that is actually aimed at the rehabilitation of persons who are currently in prison, and effectively integrate them into society as functioning members, who are able to make a contribution,” Elliot added.

He also voiced his optimism for success of the programme. He expressed belief that the participants will benefit greatly from the courses offered, and will seize employment opportunities after exiting the prison system.