Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco has challenged staff working at the state department to be part of ongoing transformative agenda within the correctional system.
Speaking at separate meetings with staff working across the various sections, the PS said the sessions with staff are meant to enhance synergy in the state department for correctional services adding that human resource remain a critical pillar in envisaged reforms that target eight priority areas.
“We should know we are not doing anybody a favor for working. It is a matter of justice that we do what we are supposed to do. Collaboration and teamwork yield optimal results. Let’s be committed.” The PS observed.
“It is important that I engage you so that I can contextualize your duties and needs for effective delivery of the state department’s mandate.” She added.
The PS said she remains committed to addressing the various issues raised by staff including working environment, mental wellness and personal development.
“The place where you work should be a safe space. Let’s not have a toxic work environment. I encourage everyone to undertake continuous training for personal development and improvement”, she implored.
Observing that financial gain should not be the motivating factor for working in the state department, the PS said positive attitude is fundamentally important in effective delivery of services.
“I want to fashion a state department of excellence, where each and every one individually makes the effort of attaining the status.” Said the PS.
The priority agenda as spearheaded by the PS include reforms targeted at social protection, environment and climate change mitigation, housing, institutional infrastructure and operational capacity, offender rehabilitation, reformation and re-integration coordination, modernization of prisons industry, administrative, legal and policy framework support as well as revitalization of prison farms.
The State department for Correctional Services has initiated a host of reforms aimed at decongesting and improving living conditions within prisons including legislative review for both custodial and non-custodial services, adoption of alternatives to imprisonment for low-risk prisoners as well as improving the welfare of staff and prisoners.
