The Punjab government has rolled out a comprehensive skills development program for prisoners across its prisons. The initiative aims not just to reform inmates but also to prepare them for a dignified return to society by providing modern technical training and officially recognized certifications.
The project was launched following a formal agreement between the Punjab Vocational Training Council (PVTC) and the Prisons Department. It marks one of the most ambitious efforts in the province to shift prisons from being solely centers of confinement to becoming hubs of skill-building and hope.
Wide Range of Skills Offered
Under the program, inmates will receive training in a diverse set of trades designed to meet market demands. Courses include:
• Electrical machinery repair
• Mobile phone servicing
• Stitching and embroidery
• Computer literacy
• Auto mechanics
• Air conditioning and refrigeration repair
• Plumbing and technical trades
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To ensure quality, PVTC will deploy certified instructors directly to prisons, giving inmates
- Access to hands-on
- Practical training rather than just theoretical lessons.
Certificates for a Second Chance
Punjab’s Home Secretary kept on emphasizing that the program is not simply about passing time behind bars but about opening doors to a new future. Inmates who successfully complete the training and pass examinations will be awarded official certificates that are recognized by the PVTC.
These documents will work as credible proof of their abilities and significantly increase their chances of securing stable employment after release.
For many prisoners, the lack of skills or qualifications is considered to be a major hurdle in the way of reintegration. By addressing this gap, the government keeps on hoping to reduce recidivism, cut unemployment and encourage former inmates to contribute positively to their families and communities.
A Shift Towards Rehabilitation
Officials believe this initiative reflects a progressive shift in prison management. Instead of viewing inmates solely as offenders, the state is treating them as individuals capable of change and growth. By investing in their education and training, Punjab is working to break the cycle of crime and help build a safer society.
The Home Secretary noted that the program also showing perfect alignment with international best practices in criminal justice, and a strong focus on rehabilitation over punishment has displayed measurable benefits. He expressed hope that the success of this project in Punjab would be helpful for the similar initiatives across the country.
Building Hope Beyond Prison Walls
This program is more than training — it is clearly depicting a lifeline of hope. By giving them opportunities to learn trades like mobile repair, tailoring, or auto mechanics, the government is ensuring that once they walk out of the prison gates, they are better equipped to walk into the job market with confidence.
As one official put it, “A prisoner trained today can be a responsible worker, entrepreneur, or breadwinner tomorrow.”
With this modern approach, Punjab is making changes in prisons by trying to make it places places of despair but as centers of transformation, paving the way for countless second chances.