The Rehabilitation program for Buimo Correctional Institution has been given a small but significant boost this afternoon.
A Lae SME specialising in Shipping and Logistics have signed an agreement with Buimo’s Jail Command.
The program will enable inmate Donald Sovi to be employed on casual terms as he undergoes a key part of the rehab program.
Life in Papua New Guinea’s cities and towns can be unforgiving. And second chances are very rare.
But that is about to change for Donald Sovi, an inmate from the Buimo Correctional Facilities. Sovi was a jail transferee from Manus province, and had served 12 years of his term.
Under Buimo’s lessons, inmates are taught useful skills for smooth reintegration back into a community. Donald Poni is one of them, who was trained at a private training institution.
“I will released later this year and I am ready for life without fences and routine,” Sovi remarked when asked if he was prepared.
An inmate must also muster an environment that is less stringent on routines. This is where Buimo’s Management comes in. They believe that employment covers significant ground to teach an inmate responsibility and respect.
“We cannot teach them about this vita step if there is no support from the outside community. So this initiative prepares them for life after prison,” Commander Namane said.
The Logistics company that signed for the initiative says the community-at-large has a responsibility to help in making communities safer.
“We are a local company, running here and there (as with a lot of small companies), but we have a responsibility to the community regardless if you are an SME or a big company, we must give back,” Ephraim Aete, the owner of the company says.
Mr. Aete’s company move was to show that a business can show trust and give a second chance.
