MINISTER of Human Services and Social Security Dr Vindhya Persaud is exploring opportunities to provide free skills training and ongoing counselling for nearly 80 women at the Timehri Women’s Prison to support their rehabilitation and re-integration into society.
The initiative would be delivered through the Ministry’s Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) programme, which provides opportunities for women to acquire practical skills and improve their prospects for economic independence.
Persaud announced the proposed support following a visit to the prison on Friday, during which she met with the women and listened to their personal experiences, challenges and concerns.
The engagement highlighted the importance of addressing not only the circumstances that brought women into the correctional system, but also the practical and emotional support they may need to rebuild their lives after incarceration.
The minister also committed to ensuring that the women receive ongoing counselling and support to help them cope with their circumstances and prepare for the future.
She encouraged them to remain hopeful, believe in their ability to change and use their time in prison to reflect, develop themselves and prepare for a fresh start.
Through the proposed skills-training initiative, the ministry hopes to equip participants with practical competencies that could improve their opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship and financial independence upon their release.
Access to vocational training and psychosocial support can play an important role in rehabilitation, particularly when programmes are designed to address the individual needs of participants and provide pathways to opportunities beyond prison.
For women preparing to return to their communities, acquiring marketable skills and receiving appropriate counselling could help them overcome some of the barriers associated with re-integration, including limited employment prospects and social stigma.
The proposed intervention reflects a rehabilitation approach that places emphasis on personal development, dignity and the opportunity to make positive changes.
While the details of the training courses and the arrangements for counselling are still to be determined, the ministry’s engagement signals an intention to explore additional support for the women.
The ultimate objective is to help them prepare for life beyond incarceration, with the skills, confidence and support needed to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their families and communities.
