Minister Calls for Vocational Training to Help Prisoners Launch Construction Businesses

Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan has urged for the expansion of vocational training within the prison system, aiming to empower inmates to establish their own construction companies upon release. Speaking at the inauguration of a new office building at Asseyri Prison, Minister Ihusaan highlighted the potential for prisoners to transition from inmates to entrepreneurs. The new facility, which includes additional office space, a classroom, and a meeting room, serves as a tangible example of this potential, having been designed and constructed by a collaborative effort of prison officers and inmates. Minister Ihusaan praised the quality of the construction work, noting that the project demonstrated the high level of skill and capability present within the prison walls. He emphasized that equipping prisoners with practical, market-ready skills is essential for successful reintegration into society and for reducing recidivism by providing viable paths to self-employment as contractors. Beyond infrastructure, the Minister's visit focused on holistic rehabilitation. He and Prisons Commissioner Hassan Zareer laid the foundation stone for a new prison kitchen intended to upgrade catering facilities for the inmate population. The visit also recognized educational and spiritual milestones. Certificates were awarded to 36 prisoners who completed a religious awareness programme during Ramadan, and to 29 participants of the Kaadhu-100 programme. Furthermore, the Minister launched the Qiraat Certificate Level 1 course, with 35 prisoners currently enrolled. To promote physical health and social cohesion, Minister Ihusaan officially opened a prison football tournament featuring seven inmate teams. This initiative aims to foster better interpersonal relationships and mental well-being among the prisoner population, complementing the vocational and educational advancements being introduced at the facility.