Home Affairs Minister stresses prison rehabilitation, not just punishment

With men accounting for more than 90 percent of Guyana’s prison population, Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond has emphasised the urgent need for prison reform aimed at reducing inmate numbers and improving rehabilitation outcomes.

In addressing these issues, Minister Walrond outlined her focus on reforming and rethinking the penal system to make it more rehabilitative rather than punitive.
She stressed that prisons should serve as spaces for correction, education, and reintegration, enabling inmates—many of whom are young men—to return to society as productive citizens.
Among her key priorities is the passage of a new Prison Act, which will ensure that prison programs are designed to support rehabilitation, learning, and the reduction of recidivism.
She explained that it is not enough to simply release prisoners at the end of their terms without equipping them to reintegrate into society: “Having programs while they’re in prison is critical. We need an active merit system where good behaviour is rewarded—whether it’s attending school, training in a trade, completing CXC exams, or earning scholarships. When they leave prison, there should be structured support, ensuring that they are well-integrated into communities and actively monitored during the transition period.”

Early disengagement of boys from education
Minister Walrond also reiterated the importance of addressing social issues from the beginning.
Highlighting the social aspect, she also underscored the growing problem of boys disengaging from education.
Approximately 80 percent of university graduates are women, she noted, indicating that many boys are not connecting with traditional learning systems. This disconnect often leaves them more vulnerable to negative social influences and pressures.
The Minister stated that the disengagement of boys cannot be ignored, as it has long-term implications for society. According to Walrond, Boys who fail to engage academically often face limited opportunities, which can contribute to broader social challenges, including crime and incarceration.
“Starting from boys, we must recognise the challenges facing our young men and young boys. The approach needs to tackle social issues and have a legal foundation where the prison system is mandated to treat prisoners as individuals capable of becoming productive citizens.”
Through these initiatives, Minister Walrond aims to create a prison system that focuses on rehabilitation, skill-building, and successful reintegration, while also addressing the educational and social needs of young men in Guyana.

Pilot ankle bracelet
initiative for low-risk
inmates in planning stage
On practical measures to facilitate reintegration, Minister Walrond discussed the planned pilot ankle bracelet program for low-risk prisoners.
“We are planning a pilot program where assessed low-risk prisoners can work outside the prison—whether it’s building drains or other community work. They will be gainfully employed, earning money for themselves and their families, while wearing ankle bracelets so we can monitor them. This approach allows prisoners to remain active, take pride in their work, and prepare for life outside, without compromising security.”
She emphasised that these programs are part of a broader vision: “Ultimately, what we want is a total overhaul of the prison system. We are not here to manufacture animals. When prisoners leave, they should be productive members of society. It requires political will, but it is possible, and it is the way to save the men our country so badly needs.

Works being undertaken to rehabilitate prisoners
It was reported in 2024 alone, that more than 820 inmates completed certified vocational courses in trades such as masonry, welding, agriculture, electrical installation, and tailoring.
These certifications, some accredited by the University of Guyana, have tangible value in the labour market. Paired with counselling, anger management, and substance abuse programmes, rehabilitation now addresses both employability and the personal challenges that often fuel criminal behaviour.
The Fresh Start Initiative stands out as an innovative post-release mechanism for inmates.
By providing toolkits, mentorship, and direct pathways to employment, this programme has enabled former inmates to open small businesses and rebuild their lives. It is a clear acknowledgment that reintegration cannot succeed without access to opportunities outside prison walls.