The Honourable Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Hon. Professor Pierre Gomez, joined the Prison Services, development partners, and stakeholders in celebrating the 8th Graduation Ceremony for inmates of Mile II and Janjanbureh Prisons.
Delivering the keynote address, the Honourable Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Hon. Professor Pierre Gomez, described the occasion as a powerful demonstration of hope, dignity, and transformation, underscoring Government’s commitment to inclusive education and skills development for all citizens, including those in correctional institutions.
The Honourable Minister noted that the initiative, which commenced in 2012, continues to reflect the belief that education does not end behind prison walls and that rehabilitation must be anchored in skills, purpose, and opportunity.
This year, 50 inmates graduated in various technical and vocational disciplines, bringing the total number of beneficiaries under the programme to 348 since its inception. The Honourable Minister highlighted that 27 of the graduates were supported through the Skills, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SIE) Fund under the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, comprising 21 from Mile II and 6 from Janjanbureh Prison.
He emphasized that this support demonstrates Government’s continued commitment to ensuring equitable access to skills development opportunities for all, regardless of circumstance.
The Honourable Minister further commended development partners, particularly the MRC Holland Foundation, for the establishment of the Insight Centre at Mile II, a modern learning facility comprising six classrooms for six training areas. He also expressed appreciation to the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) for providing essential training materials across key programme areas.
He stated that the training programme is delivering practical, market-driven skills in construction, solar and electrical installation, satellite installation, plumbing, tailoring, information technology, and hairdressing. These are complemented by cross-cutting modules in English communication, entrepreneurship, career guidance, counselling, and information technology, ensuring a holistic approach to rehabilitation.
The Honourable Minister reaffirmed that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) remains a critical pathway for reintegration, stating that skills development enhances employability, restores dignity, and reduces recidivism, while preparing beneficiaries to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Addressing the graduates, the Honourable Minister encouraged them to take pride in their achievement, noting that their certificates represent opportunity, renewal, and a pathway to a better future.
He further commended the Prison Services, trainers, administrators, and all partners for their sustained commitment to the success of the programme, describing it as “a model of transformation that must be strengthened and scaled.”
The ceremony concluded with a renewed call for continued investment in correctional education as a strategic pillar for human capital development and national progress.
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