Fifteen women at the South Camp Adult Correctional Centre in Kingston graduated on Thursday, (November 30) with HEART/NSTA certifications.

Shauna Trowers, chief technical director at the Ministry of National Security, who delivered an address at the graduating ceremony on behalf of state minister Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn, expressed that the Government is firmly committed to further the development of its comprehensive and reintegrated plans for incarcerated persons.

“It seeks to reduce reoffending by engaging our young women and men across the correctional facilities through academic endeavours, skills training, counselling, attention to psychosocial needs, sport, and many other targeted initiatives,” she said.

She also noted that the National Correctional Services Policy will also play a crucial role in the Government’s move to rehabilitate and reintegrate offenders into society.

“I encourage you to continue to use every opportunity to enhance your skills to become more marketable. We continue to engage stakeholders in order to create a sustainable avenue for your reintegration into society as law-abiding and productive citizens,” Cuthbert-Flynn said.

“I want to commend you for being resilient, despite being in an environment that can be daunting. You have proven to us, your loved ones, and more importantly, yourselves, that your environment does not determine your values and capabilities, as you all are now soaring on the wings of success,” she added.

The women were provided with training and job certification in cosmetology, sewing, and data operations at Level 2, and other courses.

Two correctional officers were also among the graduating batch.