Prison officers urged to elevate standards of performance
Prison officers stationed at the Mazaruni Prison have been encouraged to enhance their individual performances through a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
They were given this encouragement on Saturday by the Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, during his end-of-year muster and general inspection of the officers at the facility.
Elliot has underscored the importance of adopting a progressive mindset, and has emphasised that such an approach is crucial for delivering effective and efficient service, not only within the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), but also to the public at large.
“Careful selection and thorough training are indispensable in such a critical public service role,” Director Elliott has said, even as he highlighted that well-prepared officers are fundamental to maintaining a high standard of operation within the prison system.
Some of the officers who were present at the muster
Elliot, in reminded the officers of the essential role they play in upholding the integrity and functionality of the country’s correctional facilities, has said, “You are the first line of defence within the Prison Estates. You are ultimately responsible for the safety, security, and supervision of inmates that are under your care; so, you must remain disciplined, and adapt to changes as officers at all times, no matter the circumstances.”
The visit and address of the Director of Prisons has come on the heels of the GPS’ ongoing commitment to strengthen its workforce and reinforce the critical role of prison officers in ensuring the safety and orderliness of correctional institutions.
Earlier this week, the GPS, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, announced the introduction of a Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) programme at various prison locations across Guyana. This initiative aims to provide inmates and officers with access to five core subjects: Mathematics, English A, Social Studies, Human and Social Biology, and Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM).
The programme is part of a broader effort to support inmate rehabilitation and provide officers with additional tools for professional development.
A Public Speaking and Effective Communication course for prison officers has also been launched, further underscoring the GPS’s commitment to equipping its staff with essential skills.
These developments align with ongoing efforts to raise the standards within the prison system, including plans to revise the entry requirements for recruits. The changes aim to attract highly qualified candidates, ensuring that the GPS maintains a competent workforce that is capable of meeting modern demands.
