Four inmates and two correctional officers have been granted the opportunity of pursuing degrees at the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean; this to improve the rehabilitation process among offenders who are serving sentences as well as to expand learning for correctional professionals.
This is a partnership between the Ministry of National Security through the Department Of Correctional Services, the University Commonwealth Caribbean and ‘stand up for Jamaica, a non-profit organization.
The parties signed a memorandum of understanding earlier this week. Six scholarships are being granted to four inmates and two correctional officers across two institutions, the St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centre and the South Camp Adult Correctional Centre.
The recipients now have the opportunity to study for an Associate Degree in Business Administration at the University. Commissioner of Corrections, Lieutenant Colonel Gary Rowe says the Department Of Correctional Services remains committed to higher education for inmates and high quality welfare of its officers. Minister of state in the Ministry of National Security Zavia Mayne says the programme will help to eliminate if not substantially reduce the possibilities of inmates becoming re-offenders.
As for the inmates, executive director of stand up for Jamaica Carla Gullotta, says they are very motivated to learn.
