Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu [email protected]
THE Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) in Matabeleland South has partnered with Tonganyika Trust to equip inmates with vocational skills ahead of their reintegration into the community.
Under the recent programme, 21 inmates from Gwanda Prison and Gwanda Farm Prison underwent a two-week training programme covering five disciplines — welding, beauty therapy, mortuary science, horticulture and Information Technology (IT).
Speaking on Friday during a graduation ceremony where the inmates were presented with certificates, Gwanda Prison Officer-in-Charge Superintendent Simon Ndondo said practical skills development was a key component in reducing recidivism.
He said the vocational training programme was in line with ZPCS’s broader mandate of prioritising rehabilitation through vocational education, psychosocial support and community engagement.
Supt Ndondo said ZPCS would continue seeking partnerships with corporates and non-governmental organisations to expand vocational training opportunities across correctional facilities in the region.
“Training and equipping inmates is one of the crucial interventions under the rehabilitation process. This graduation we are holding today is tangible evidence that rehabilitation is on track.
“The inmates have been equipped with skills that will assist them to fend for their families and generate income upon being released.
“We anticipate successful reintegration post-release and remain committed to enhanced stakeholder engagement for sustainable rehabilitation outcomes. We urge communities to have faith in our rehabilitation process and give these inmates a chance once they have been released,” he said.
Supt Ndondo said the partnership with Tonganyika Trust would continue, with the aim of equipping as many inmates as possible with practical skills.
Speaking on behalf of Tonganyika Trust, Mr Wisdom Masase said the organisation was committed to supporting the country’s correctional rehabilitation programmes.
He said vocational training was crucial to the country’s development agenda as it creates employment opportunities and helps alleviate poverty, in line with Vision 2030.
@DubeMatutu
