–Minister Benn urges new prison officers

IN a ceremony celebrating the successful completion of the Basic Recruit Training Course 2/2024, 38 newly trained officers of the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) graduated at the Guyana Fire Service Headquarters on Homestretch Avenue.
The event, held on Tuesday, was attended by Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn, Director of Prisons (acting) Nicklon Elliot, Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham, and other officials, family members, and supporters.

In his keynote address, Minister Benn commended the graduates and the GPS training team for their dedication to the challenging field of correctional service. He highlighted the government’s commitment to reform within the prison system, emphasising that the role of the GPS extends beyond custodial duties to include rehabilitation and reintegration.

“We don’t want people to come into the prison and be treated with cruelty,” stated Minister Benn. “We want to rehabilitate them, to make them better citizens, to prepare them to reunite with their families and contribute positively to society.” He underscored the importance of providing a humane correctional environment, focusing on reducing recidivism and fostering a stable transition back into the community for former inmates.

Minister Benn urged the recruits to uphold discipline, integrity, and professionalism, adding, “This is the biggest movement in the economic, social, and physical development of this country. And you, young people, are now the point and the tip of the spear of this effort.”
The ceremony also celebrated the achievements of several outstanding recruits. Farida Adolphus received the title of Best Student Overall and was recognised as the Second Runner-Up for Best Shot. Emanuel Benn was named First Runner-Up for Best Student, while Neol Rose received the award for Best

Shot, with Alex LaRose as First Runner-Up in the same category. Kimberly Chase was awarded Best Student in Prison Management, and Kenroy Debideen was recognised as the Most Improved Student.
Director of Prisons (ag) Nicklon Elliot addressed the new graduates, encouraging them to uphold high standards of conduct and integrity in their roles. “You are now part of a dedicated team working to ensure the security and stability of our nation,” Mr. Elliot said, emphasising the critical importance of their duties within the GPS.

Deputy Director of Prisons Kevin Pilgrim reminded the recruits of their responsibility to maintain the rights and dignity of inmates, stressing that prisoners, despite their restricted freedoms, are entitled to fundamental human rights. “It is crucial that you understand the role you play in the care and rehabilitation of those who are incarcerated,” he stated, noting the numerous training opportunities available to GPS personnel to foster professional development.

The rigorous training course prepared the graduates with essential skills in security protocols, rehabilitation strategies, and prison management, reflecting the government’s vision of a modernised, empathetic correctional system that aligns with international standards.
The graduates are now set to serve in the Guyana Prison Service, bringing principles of accountability, empathy, and respect to their roles, as they contribute to Guyana’s commitment to an effective and humane approach to corrections.