IN a significant stride towards rehabilitation, the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) showcased the success of its agriculture programme on Tuesday as inmates from the Mazaruni Prison participated in a bountiful harvest of vegetables and fruits.

The prison’s farm yielded close to 650 pounds of boulangers, and a variety of freshly-picked fruits.

Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliott expressed satisfaction with the productivity of the farming initiative, emphasising its resilience in the face of adverse weather conditions. Despite the challenges, the agricultural efforts at the Mazaruni Prison have proven to be fruitful, contributing to the broader goal of creating a self-sustaining food supply within the prison system.

The GPS has strategically focused on implementing a robust agriculture programme in the system so as not only to equip inmates with farming skills but also delve into the field of animal husbandry.

Mr. Elliot highlighted the multifaceted benefits of the programme, stating that it not only aids in rehabilitation but also serves the strategic goal of maximising yields through large-scale farming investments for the prison industry.

“The success we’ve witnessed this year is a testament to the commitment of our inmates, and the effectiveness of our rehabilitation programmes,” Director Elliot said.

He emphasised that the agriculture programme plays a pivotal role in providing inmates with valuable skills, thereby fostering a sense of responsibility as well as contributing to their overall development.

The GPS’s commitment to agricultural rehabilitation extends beyond Mazaruni Prison, as it also encompasses the New Amsterdam, Lusignan, and Timehri Prisons. These initiatives aim to create a positive and constructive environment within the prison system, thereby allowing inmates to acquire practical skills that can support their reintegration into society upon their release.

As the GPS continues to invest in large-scale farming, the success at the Mazaruni Prison stands as a testament to the transformative power of rehabilitation through agriculture, offering inmates a path to personal growth and self-sufficiency.