Graduation at prison: what’s next for the inmates?

Since December 2021, I’ve been working in the criminal justice system and have witnessed firsthand the complexities of the Sindh prison system. At any given time, under-trial prisoners make up 78% of the prison population in Sindh. With 23 operational facilities designed for 13,938 inmates, the current population exceeds 22,000, highlighting severe overcrowding. Despite the Sindh government’s progressive steps in 2019 to reform the prison system, transforming it from punitive to rehabilitative under the Sindh Prisons and Corrections Service Act, challenges persist.

However, rehabilitation demands collective societal engagement. The greatest hurdle these graduates will face is the pervasive negative perception of being former inmates. This stigma often overshadows their newly acquired skills, leaving them stranded despite their qualifications.

For rehabilitation to be truly effective, there must be a concerted effort to bridge the gap between prisons and society. Establishing mechanisms to connect skilled former inmates with relevant industries is crucial. Internships could serve as a practical solution, allowing employers to evaluate an individual’s skills while providing hands-on experience. This approach benefits both parties and paves the way for meaningful reintegration.

In other countries, similar initiatives have proven successful. In the US, programmes like the Prison Entrepreneurship Program connect inmates with business leaders, providing mentorship and post-release employment opportunities. In Norway, a focus on education and vocational training within prisons has resulted in one of the lowest recidivism rates in the world. These examples show that with the right support, former inmates can reintegrate successfully into society.

Ensuring fair economic opportunities for released inmates is not just a matter of justice; it’s a strategic move to reduce recidivism. When former inmates find stable employment, they are less likely to return to crime, contributing to safer communities. Society needs to step up, embracing these individuals and acknowledging their efforts to reform.

Additionally, we should consider the role of public awareness campaigns in changing societal perceptions. Highlighting success stories of former inmates can help shift the narrative from one of stigma to one of redemption. Community support programmes, partnerships between the private sector and rehabilitation services, and government incentives for businesses that hire former inmates can also play a significant role.

Moreover, it is essential to provide ongoing support for these individuals even after they have secured employment. Programmes that offer counselling, continuous education, and peer support can help them navigate the challenges of reintegration.

Without such mechanisms, the degrees earned behind bars risk leading to broken pathways and unfulfilled promises. It’s time for society to bridge the gap, ensuring that the journey from incarceration to reintegration is supported every step of the way. By fostering a supportive environment and providing tangible opportunities, we can turn the hard-earned skills of these graduates into lasting change.
The responsibility extends beyond the government and employers to educational institutions and community organisations. Universities and vocational schools should be encouraged to partner with correctional facilities to offer advanced training and support. Community organisations can create mentorship programmes to guide former inmates through their transition. These partnerships are essential in building a network of support that begins inside the prison walls and extends well beyond them.

It’s a call for us all to participate in this transformation. Employers, policymakers, community leaders, and ordinary citizens all have a role to play.