Automotive Programme for Rio Cobre Juvenile Correctional Centre

Wards at the Rio Cobre Juvenile Correctional Centre in St. Catherine will benefit from an Automotive and Driver’s Education Programme in August.

The announcement was made by Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security, Hon. Zavia Mayne, while touring the Rio Cobre Juvenile Correctional Centre, on Thursday, July 14.

This programme is being made possible through a partnership with the Ministry of National Security’s Department of Correctional Services (DCS), and the Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA).

The programme forms part of the institution’s rehabilitation efforts and aims to teach wards who are 17 years old to drive and to assist them in applying for their learner’s licence.

Mr. Mayne said the Government remains committed to supporting the development and implementation of rehabilitation programmes to address the needs of all wards. s

The facility’s programmes include educational and vocational modules such as mathematics, computer science, barbering, auto mechanics and tailoring.
Mr. Mayne said that programmes of this nature help to reduce recidivism and that the wards should take full advantage of the rehabilitation efforts to better support their reintegration into society.

“Your time here is not permanent, but it is a journey you have to go through. It is important that you get an education, as well as the values, attitudes and discipline that the facility offers,” he said.

Meanwhile, Superintendent at the Rio Cobre Juvenile Correctional Centre, Maulette White, said the facility is undergoing continuous improvements to its housing and educational facilities to enhance the wards’ rehabilitation.

“The major infrastructural improvements to our dormitories began last year as part of our endeavour to improve living conditions for the wards. The renovation is set to be completed by the end of the year,” Ms. White explained.

Mr. Mayne also visited the Spanish Town Probation Office on the second leg of his tour.

So far, he has visited and assessed five of the island’s correctional facilities – Tamarind Farm Adult Correctional Centre, St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centre, Tower Street Correctional Centre, and South Camp Juvenile and Adult Correctional Centres.

The tours are aimed at providing the State Minister with first-hand orientation of the facility, as well as an opportunity to meet with and address the concerns of correctional officers, staff and wards.