The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the National Prison Service, with funding support from the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, on Thursday graduated 258 inmates—including 42 women and 90 juveniles—and 57 prison officers from various technical and vocational courses at Wau Central Prison in Western Bahr el Ghazal State.
Representing the graduates, Achal Chan Riak expressed deep gratitude to the Netherlands and UNDP for their continuous funding, technical support, and collaboration that have enabled the operation of the Vocational Training Centre (VTC).
“You saw past the wall and the mistakes of our past. You did not just offer us time; you offered us the opportunity to earn a future.” Chan said. “This program is proof that society believes in second chances, and we promise we will not take this faith for granted. We are forever grateful for your vision and investment in rehabilitation.”
UNDP representative Catherine Waliaula highlighted that the VTC was established to equip inmates with practical, self-reliant skills that improve livelihoods and reduce reoffending. She noted that the programme aims to build a sustainable business model through commercial production and food security, while also strengthening the capacity of prison staff to effectively manage the centres.
“We congratulate you,” she said. “I want to thank the state administration and extend profound appreciation to Madam Quirine and Charles from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. You have been great partners to UNDP and, most importantly, to the people of South Sudan.”
Speaking on behalf of the Netherlands Embassy, Timmerman Quirine reaffirmed her government’s ongoing commitment to supporting rehabilitation initiatives but emphasized the importance of sustainability.
“It is important to recognize the need for sustainability. I call upon the Government of South Sudan to look at ways to enhance this training and provide resources for continuous inmate training,” she said.
For his part, the Director General of the National Prison Service of South Sudan, Maj. Gen. Henry Kuany Aguar praised the programme for its inclusive approach and positive impact within prison facilities.
“The VTC has contributed to a significant reduction in violence and disorder,” he stated. “Inmates are finding new purpose as they serve their sentences, and many, especially juveniles, are gaining skills that support successful reintegration.”
Since its inception in 2016/17 at Juba Central Prison—with support from UNDP and funding from the Netherlands—the vocational training programme has expanded to Wau, where UNDP constructed a modern training facility powered by green energy and equipped with eight classrooms and an administrative block.
The centre offers nine core courses, including Computer studies, Carpentry and joinery, Building and construction, Electrical installation, Metal fabrication and welding, Auto mechanics, Agriculture, Hairdressing and beauty therapy, Tailoring and fashion design.
The VTC in Wau has provided skills training to 752 inmates and prison personnel since 2021. This year’s cohort includes 258 graduates, among them 90 juveniles, 105 adult inmates, and 57 prison officers. The total of the beneficiaries since the establishment of the programme in the three prisons of Juba, Wau, and Malakal is 3,114.
Several graduates have already reintegrated into their communities, taking up employment or engaging in self-run enterprises.