The Samoa Prisons and Correctional Facilities has successfully completed its first ever rehabilitation training for a group of inmates at Tafaigata Prison.
Prisons spokesperson Ulugia Nuia Aumua says the training provides the group an opportunity to turn a new leaf in the lives.
“As you know we are the prisons and correctional services, not only do we hold the prisoners to prevent re-offending, but we also train and rehabilitate them, in order to change their mindset,” said Ulugia.
“So we’re just not about punishing the criminal. We believe in second chances as well for those who do have such a chance,” he added.
The reintegration program started in February this year with PCS training and rehabilitating the inmates, by undergoing educational programs, through culture, consultation and fellowship with Christ.
“About 233 inmates took part in the program and today 199 of those men and women are graduating from their extensive training and determination to change. It’s an incredible feat and achievement by our Ministry and it’s something worth celebrating,” Ulugia added.
“They will be receiving different certificates from the different courses they took, the vocational program, educational, behavioral, and anger management courses and other focuses they’ve taken part in,” he said.
The trainings were carried out by a special professional service in the PCS who specialize in rehabilitation training and treatment within prisons. Complete with experts who hold experience in the area they teach, including anger management classes, behavioral treatment, and even educational training.
The focus is that by the time the person leaves the prisons compound, they would have learnt something new to put to use as soon as they leave. Encouraging them to make a change instead of repeating an offense.