THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) have forged a partnership aimed at teaching persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) new skills and knowledge on science, technology and innovation before they are reintegrated into society.
The first BJMP-run jail facility to benefit from the partnership is the Isulan District Jail in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, which has opened its own Isulan District Jail Bakeshop as part of the DOST’s technological assistance to improve the living conditions of inmates.
The Isulan project, which cost the government P309,806 to complete, included improvements in the prison facility’s kitchen to ensure food safety, and training on the usage of the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly-Operated KioskS (STARBOOKS).
The program likewise taught prisoners new skills that can be used not only in their economic status but also in their social status.
DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, thanked the BJMP leadership for recognizing the roles of Science and Technology in giving PDLs new opportunities to grow, excel, and become better.
In underscoring the importance of the undertaking, Mabborang pointed out that the more than 400 PDLs who have participated in the program have become more responsible not only in their families but also in their communities.
He said the inmates were also able to look for new jobs, and support their families and improve their living conditions.
Mabborang also said the program boosted the prisoners’ self-confidence, and allowed them to build camaraderie and become more productive and better citizens.
Aside from trainings on S &T and innovation, Mabborang said the DOST is also offering skills enhancement training, livelihood programs, programs for senior citizens, LGBTQ+ programs, and other programs so that PDLs can still be productive inside the jails.
