Skills training for inmates brings results

AS part of a Business Against Crime (BAC) initiative to equip offenders for life outside prison, 35 inmates at Qalakabusha Correctional Centre were awarded certificates after completing a plant production skills programme.

Speaking at the event on Wednesday, BAC Manager Mike Patterson said they have realised the need to empower offenders with life skills while they are still behind bars, so that when they are released they don’t return to crime.

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‘This is part of integrating them into society, as well as addressing the issue of unemployment. With the skills they have acquired here, they should be able to create employment opportunities instead of joining the unemployment queue.

‘We particularly targeted the youth. We want to see them starting their own businesses. We commit ourselves to supporting them, especially those that come from rural areas,’ Patterson said.

Speaking on behalf of the Area Commissioner, Bonga Luthuli praised BAC for their initiative.

‘We hope these boys will share their skills with their communities.’