By Kimberly Giddings
December 16, 2024
The Guyana Prison Service (GPS) has achieved a milestone in 2024 by training over 400 officers through 30 diverse programs and implementing innovative initiatives aimed at professional development and operational enhancement.
A notable initiative includes a partnership with the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), where 30 officers are currently enrolled in a training program.
These officers will complete level one and two courses, earning an associate degree in education.
Within one to two years, these officers will join the GPS as trained teachers, marking a significant step towards in-house education delivery for the service.
Assistant Superintendent of Prisons, Abeid De Cunha, emphasized the groundbreaking nature of this initiative, stating it is the first of its kind in the region.
Historically, civilians facilitated educational programs within the prison system, but the current approach focuses on equipping prison officers with the skills to deliver content effectively.
In addition, more than 300 officers recently completed human rights training through a program offered by the Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.
The training aims to enhance the skills and awareness of prison officers, focusing on improving standards, correctional practices, and ensuring the dignity and human rights of all prisoners are upheld.
To further professional development, the GPS has also partnered with the University of Guyana to launch a promotional training program.
This initiative offers eligible officers courses in prison management, enabling them to meet international standards upon completion.
These efforts underscore the GPS’s commitment to enhancing the competencies of its personnel and raising the overall standard of operations within the prison system.