as government strengthens prison service training

IN line with the government’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), 226 officers were recently certified after completing a range of specialised training programmes. This latest cohort adds to the 281 officers who received training in the first half of 2024, with plans underway to train an additional 250 officers before the year ends.

The officers were certified in key areas such as Prison Management, Human Rights, Supervisory Management, and Emergency Response Training. Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, emphasised the significance of ongoing training, noting that it equips staff with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to uphold their duties professionally, while respecting the rights and dignity of inmates.

Elliot highlighted that the GPS is shifting its focus towards education and training, reflecting the institution’s commitment to creating a rehabilitative environment. “This strategic shift aims to go beyond traditional incarceration, fostering a culture of respect and rehabilitation within the prison system,” he said.

Acting Deputy Director of Prisons and Head of the Staff Training Department, Kevin Pilgrim, echoed these sentiments, stressing that the comprehensive training equips officers with the necessary tools to perform their roles efficiently. He also noted that the range of courses underscores the GPS’s dedication to modernising the service through education.

In addition to on-the-job training, the GPS is also supporting the professional development of its staff through educational opportunities. In 2024, 31 prison officers were awarded scholarships through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL). These scholarships will allow officers to further their education in fields such as National Security and Intelligence, Accounting and Finance, Public Relations, Occupational Safety and Health, and Human and Financial Resource Management.
This robust training and educational initiative are seen as vital steps in enhancing the professionalism and competencies of prison officers, while contributing to the overall improvement of the country’s prison system.