A training program aimed at empowering inmates with electrical skills has been launched at Bvumbwe Young Offenders Reformatory Centre in Thyolo District, Malawi. Led by renowned poet Luckier Chikopa, the program seeks to equip young offenders with practical skills to aid in their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The training, which is part of Chikopa's Pamtondo initiative, has already seen 20 inmates undergo electrical skills training, including cabling and connections.
The inmates, dressed in new work suits, helmets, and boots, worked under supervision to complete electrical installations, culminating in the successful lighting of bulbs. The program's progress was hailed by the inmates themselves, who expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to acquire new skills. One inmate noted that he had regretted being at the correctional facility but was now looking forward to establishing his own workshop upon completion of his term.
Chikopa, known for her poems such as 'Mamuna Ndi Mbalame', said that the idea to work with inmates at Bvumbwe Young Offenders Reformatory Centre was driven by the need to empower young people and bring about change. As a professional electrical engineer, Chikopa received funding from Mudzi Connect to undertake the empowerment drive. The program also received support from Copyright Fund, which enabled Chikopa to work with deaf people to craft poetry.
The training program, which will run until December, will see the inmates and warders receive certificates upon completion. Chikopa stated that the inmates are assessed by her team and will also undergo an assessment by Teveta, which will qualify them to receive certificates. This certification will enable them to work in the electrical industry without facing problems.
Bvumbwe Young Offenders Rehabilitation Centre's spokesperson, Peter Makoza, hailed Chikopa for the initiative, saying it is part of their empowerment programs aimed at reforming inmates. The centre has several other programs, including farming and tailoring, and is happy to see the 20 inmates making progress. Makoza also noted that some officers are part of the program.
The program is part of a broader effort to provide inmates with skills and entrepreneurial abilities. Chikopa noted that she had previously taught at a technical school in rural areas and wanted to extend her reach to inmates, particularly young people. The poet expressed her satisfaction with the program's progress, stating that "we are making headway, there is so much to learn but we will get there".
The initiative has been well-received by the inmates, who see it as an opportunity to turn their lives around. With the support of Chikopa and other facilitators, the inmates are gaining practical skills that will enable them to reintegrate into society upon completion of their terms. The program's impact is expected to be long-term, with the potential to reduce recidivism rates and empower young people to make positive changes in their lives.
Key points
- Poet Luckier Chikopa leads electrical skills training for inmates at Bvumbwe Young Offenders Reformatory Centre.
- The program aims to empower young offenders with practical skills to aid in their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
- The training program will run until December and will see the inmates and warders receive certificates upon completion.
