Training to Make it on the Outside

Like prisoners in many parts of the world, prisoners in Zambia endure overcrowding, food and water shortages, and often suffer from a variety of life-threatening diseases. However their pain and suffering is far from over when they are released from prison. Most of them confront the harsh reality of unemployment and poverty. In addition to their prison record, most prisoners lack the skills that would make them employable, especially in areas of high unemployment. Many of the younger offenders have little or no education.  It is estimated that more than 60 percent of released prisoners will re-offend and be returned to prison largely because they have not been able to support themselves. 

In response to the growing plight of ex-prisoners in the community, PF Zambia, is emerging as a leading voice in prisoner rehabilitation. PF currently provides in-prison vocational training that helps prisoners learn basic tailoring skills, metal fabrication, and carpentry. Classes include formal instruction with graduation exams and certification.  To date, the programme boasts a 98 percent pass rate.  The programme is conducted in a previously vacant building located next to the prison and is supported by the Zambia Education Capacity Building Programme.   Although the vocational programme is still relatively new, PF Zambia has already seen the impact it is    having in the lives of participants. A recent graduate, Manfred Mahanoy, had been serving a three-year prison term when he enrolled in the programme. After his release he was able to begin a tailoring business and now operates his own shop.

PF Zambia continues to follow up with those who have completed the training programme, gathering feedback to further customize the programme for future students. “To us this project is an achievement and for that we give God the glory,” says Melbin Simangolwa, PF Zambia‘s Vocational Project Officer.