Thirty-two inmates from the New Amsterdam Prison were recipients of a
certificate today which indicates that they have successfully
completed a twelve-week Anger Management Course.
The programme which commenced on July 12 was conducted by the
Solutions Training Consultancy and Counselling Services (STCCS), and
marks the fourth batch to graduate for the year in Berbice. The
graduation ceremony was held at the Prisons’ Conference Hall,
Penitentiary Walk, New Amsterdam, Berbice.
The ten women and 23 men, decked out in gowns, sat patiently before
gracing the stage to collect their award. Among those graduating were
convicted and remand prisoners.
Officer-in-Charge, Superintendent of New Amsterdam Prisons Deoraj
Gyandat, remarked that the initiative undertaken by the Solutions
Training Consultancy and Counselling Services (STCCS), has contributed
tremendously to the lives of the inmates. He noted that since the
beginning of the sessions, his officers did not encounter any
challenges and have since seen great improvements from the
participants.
“The programme is a testimony to our commitment towards our mandate
which is safe custody and retraining of inmates … we want persons to
be reintegrated into society and live as law abiding citizens,” the
Senior Officer said.
In addition, Gyandat congratulated the inmates for completing each
session and encouraged them to practice what they have learnt after
they are reintegrated into society. “I want you to use and spread this
knowledge and be good role models,” Gyandat added.
Managing Director of Solutions Training Consultancy and Counselling
Services (STCCS), Mr. Will Campbell highlighted that the lessons
taught were much more than just learning how to manage anger. The
course, he said, was planned to expose the inmates to “a well-designed
rehabilitation and social re-entry programme,” while citing that the
topics have helped the participants to explore various issues which
cause individuals to experience difficulty managing their emotions.
Campbell, who is also a psychologist, said that those who were
involved in the three-month programme were also encouraged to adjust
new ways of being, by adopting new ways of thinking.
The fifth batch of the rehabilitation initiative by the STCCS is
expected to commence shortly.
