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TCI Community College TVET Programme Empowers Inmates and Officers with Certifications at His Majesty’s Prison
#TurksandCaicos, September 15, 2023 – Five (5) inmates and nine (9) Correctional Officers at His Majesty’s Prison have successfully obtained internationally recognised certifications through the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Community College’s Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) PLAR programme. This represents 100% passes in the skill areas of Customer Service and Commercial Food Preparation. The individuals are now eligible to receive their Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) Level 1 certificates during the upcoming College Graduation exercise. This historic accomplishment marks a significant milestone in the rehabilitation and skills development of incarcerated individuals and capacity building for correctional officers within the Turks and Caicos
A tri-partite partnership, signed on 17 November 2022, officially brought together the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, His Majesty’s Prison (formerly the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation), and the HJ Robinson High School. Under the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the entities joined forces to deliver high-quality technical vocational education and training to inmates and officers in recognition of the pivotal role training and skills development plays in the rehabilitation process.
The MOU signing was witnessed by several government ministers, including Hon. Rachel Taylor, Hon. Josephine Connolly, Hon. Otis Morris, Hon. Arlington Musgrove, and Hon. Shaun Malcolm. Senior government and education officials were also present to witness the historic event signaling their intent and commitment to the programme.
Training for this cohort commenced in August 2022 and they sat the PLAR Challenge Exam in February 2023. Aspects of the examinations were proctored virtually and formed the basis for the College to utilise technology to deliver training and assessment to this unique cohort. This intervention provided the benchmark for the TCICC’s success, which earned the team first place in the Blended Challenge at the recently concluded International Conference of TVET within the Caribbean.
“A TVET system is only as strong as the institution that provides the education and training. The tripartite approach to this initiative will indeed provide the relevant rehabilitation for our inmates that will allow them to transition into the labour force and live healthy and productive lives. I look forward to our team providing certification in other areas as the programme progresses. Once again, congratulations to all wardens and inmates and I encourage you to continue to capitalise from the opportunities that presents itself,” expressed Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education.
Hon. Otis Morris, Minister for Home Affairs, Transportation, Broadcasting, Energy and Utilities and Telecommunications Commission, joined in congratulating the trainees on completing this milestone, he continued by stating, “This is a significant achievement that reflects your dedication, hard work, and commitment to your education and career development. As you move forward in your journey, remember that the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired during this program will be invaluable in your chosen field. Your determination has brought you to this milestone, and I have no doubt that you’ll continue to excel in your future endeavours. Best wishes for a bright and successful career ahead! As the minister responsible for the DCR I’m elated to have supported this programme and look forward to it’s continuous success.”
The success of the TVET programme at His Majesty’s Prison depends heavily on the collective efforts of all stakeholders. Dr. Candice Williams, President of TCI Community College, urged employers to value the certifications earned by inmates by offering employment opportunities to those who’ve completed their certifications. This
Mr. Michael Woodbine, Superintendent of Prisons and Director of Rehabilitation lauded the programme by stating, “Working with a widely recognised partner such as TVET really does enable us to support prisoners in their rehabilitation, training and work experience. Gaining high-quality recognised qualifications, and being able to demonstrate and practice those skills in the prison really does help people to prepare for their release. This first programme, which saw staff and prisoners achieving together, is just the start and we will work with TVET to broaden our offer of skilled and meaningful training, helping and supporting people who leave the prison in gaining meaningful work as they return to being productive members of our communities.”
Mr. Kevin Baxter, TVET Dean, highlighted the significant growth and impact the TVET programme has experienced and emphasised the programme’s continued dedication to its partnership with His Majesty’s Prison and the secondary school system. He stated, “TVET’s expansion underscores the importance of equipping inmates with workforce-ready skills and competence thereby fostering a seamless transition into society after incarceration”.
The TCI Community College’s TVET programme has proven to be a beacon of hope, offering incarcerated individuals a path towards personal growth, rehabilitation, and a brighter future. As the partnership continues to flourish and additional skill areas are included, it is anticipated that additional inmates and correctional officers will benefit from this transformative initiative.