IT skill training course launched at Vizag central prison

Visakhapatnam: An IT-based skill training course titled “Office Assistant” was inaugurated at the central prison in Vizag by Visakhapatnam district collector M Abhishikth Kishore as a first-of-its-kind initiative in the Andhra Pradesh prisons department.

The programme is being organised in collaboration with Skill Development Institute (SDI), Visakhapatnam, to provide industry-oriented IT and office management skills to prison inmates as part of their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

The first batch comprised 30 inmates and mainly focused on remand prisoners, particularly young inmates involved in NDPS cases. The course duration was two months and, upon successful completion, the trainees were awarded certification by SDI, Visakhapatnam.

The course is designed to impart practical knowledge in computer applications, office administration, digital communication, office equipment handling, and employability skills. The programme also focuses on improving digital literacy, communication abilities, workplace discipline and self-confidence among inmates, thereby enhancing their opportunities for employment and constructive rehabilitation after release.

Speaking on the occasion, Abhishikth Kishore appreciated the efforts of the prisons department and SDI Visakhapatnam in introducing innovative reformative programmes for inmates. He stated that skill development initiatives inside prisons can play a vital role in transforming lives and creating positive opportunities for inmates to rebuild their future.

After inaugurating the course, the district collector interacted with the inmates participating in the programme and enquired about their interests, aspirations and willingness to utilise the opportunity for self-improvement and rehabilitation. He encouraged the inmates to make effective use of the training programme for building a better future.

Subsequently, the collector visited the prison industries and the Skill Development Block within the prison premises. He expressed satisfaction with the various vocational, industrial, and rehabilitative activities being carried out for the welfare, skill enhancement, and reformation of inmates at the prison.

The prison authorities stated that the initiative reflects the department’s commitment towards correctional administration through education, vocational training and capacity building, with a focus on empowering inmates to become responsible, skilled and self-reliant citizens.