Humane approach to correction needed in prison – Benn

…as 38 recruits graduate from GPS recruit training course

As the Guyana Prison Service received 38 newly trained officers, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn has reemphasised the importance of rehabilitation for persons in prison rather than them experiencing violence.
He made this disclosure while delivering the feature address at the graduation ceremony on Tuesday.

Benn also emphasized the importance of reform within the prison system, noting that the GPS’s role is not just custodial but rehabilitative.
“We don’t want people to come into the prison and be treated with cruelty. We want to rehabilitate them. We want to make them better citizens. We want them to be stable and to come out and have jobs. We want them to go out and join their families and not pose a threat to their families, to themselves, or to the wider community,” Minister Benn stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to a humane approach in corrections.
Meanwhile, he shed light on the impact of the training and stressed that the officers play a crucial role in the safety and development of society. “This is the biggest movement in the economic, social, and physical development of this country. And you, young people, are now the point and the tip of the spear of this effort,” Minister Benn asserted, urging recruits to make the best of the opportunities provided and to embody the discipline and integrity essential to their roles.
Benn commended the recruits and the GPS training team for their commitment to this demanding field of service.
Director of Prisons (ag), Nicklon Elliot, also welcomed the new recruits, urging them to adhere to high standards of conduct and integrity. “You are now part of a dedicated team working to ensure the security and stability of our nation,” Mr. Elliot noted, encouraging the graduates to approach their roles with commitment and professionalism.
Lending the same perspective, Deputy Director of Prisons, Kevin Pilgrim, during his brief remarks, reminded them of their responsibility in maintaining the rights and dignity of inmates under their care.
“It is crucial that you understand the role you play in the care and rehabilitation of those who are incarcerated,” Mr. Pilgrim remarked. “Let me remind you most emphatically that prisoners, just like other citizens, are entitled to enjoy their fundamental human rights, restricted as they may be.” Mr. Pilgrim further highlighted the numerous training opportunities available through the Guyana Prison Service, aimed at fostering professional growth and skill development.
Honoring those who excelled in the training course, the GPS awarded several distinctions to outstanding recruits. Farida Adolphus earned the title of Best Student Overall and also placed as Second Runner-Up for Best Shot. Emanuel Benn was recognized as the First Runner-Up for Best Student, while Neol Rose was celebrated for achieving the Best Shot, with Alex LaRose named as the First Runner-Up in the same category. Kimberly Chase was awarded Best Student in Prison Management, and Kenroy Debideen was acknowledged as the Most Improved Student.
The recruits have completed a rigorous training course covering security protocols, rehabilitation methods, and prison management skills. This curriculum, aligned with international standards, underscores the government’s commitment to an empathetic and effective correctional approach. Investments in training, modern facilities, and personnel development reflect a broader goal to reduce recidivism and promote humane treatment within the prison system.
The graduates are now poised to contribute to the country’s correctional system, embodying the principles of accountability, respect, and empathy as they uphold their duties in the GPS.