IN a notable achievement for the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), the institution recorded a remarkable reduction in recidivism rates, signalling a positive trend in the rehabilitation of offenders within the country’s correctional system.

According to GPS Director of Prisons, Elliot, the service’s concerted efforts in providing technical and vocational skills training, alongside behavioral modification and social services programmes, have contributed significantly to this achievement. These initiatives, in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Services and the Guyana Police Force, aim to equip prisoners with essential life skills and support their successful reintegration into society upon release.

Director Elliot highlighted the importance of rehabilitative programmes in preparing prisoners for life beyond incarceration, emphasising their role in reducing recidivism rates.

He noted, “Our rehabilitative programmes are meeting their intended purpose of preparing prisoners with life skills that will allow them to better reintegrate into society.”

The success of Guyana’s efforts in reducing recidivism is particularly noteworthy when compared to global averages. Guyana’s recidivism rate of 18% stands in stark contrast to averages reported by the Inter-American Development Bank for Australia (45%), the United States of America (43%), the Caribbean (41%), and Latin America (33%).

Acknowledging the collaborative efforts and strategic developments within the prison service, Director Elliot attributed the successes to a multi-pronged approach led by Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn. He emphasised the commitment of the GPS to address rehabilitation efforts comprehensively, both within prison walls and in promoting reintegration into society.

The GPS is committed to upskilling inmates and enhancing the capacity of its staff through training initiatives. In 2023 alone, 1,520 inmates benefitted from training opportunities provided by internal and external trainers, while 435 GPS employees underwent training to improve their ability to manage inmates within a reformative and correctional setting.

Looking ahead, Director Elliot outlined a continued focus on holistic rehabilitation efforts within the prison system and enhanced support for reintegration into society. He emphasised the importance of collaboration with community partners, the private sector, family support networks, government ministries, and law enforcement agencies to ensure the success of these initiatives.

The GPS encourages the involvement of non-profit organisations, faith-based groups, and private entities in supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration efforts, recognising the collective responsibility in creating a better future for convicted offenders as they reintegrate into communities.

The strides made by the GPS in reducing recidivism rates signify a significant step towards effective rehabilitation and community safety, marking a positive trajectory for Guyana’s criminal justice system.