Ondangwa
Two hundred and forty-six recruits of Namibian Correctional Services last Thursday successfully completed a gruelling six-month basic training at Oluno Correctional Facility.
The passing out parade took place in Ondangwa in Oshana Region.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, the Minister of Safety and Security, (Rtd) Major-General Charles Namholo, said it was a special recruitment for drivers, chefs and people with disabilities as well as struggle kids. Two disabled people were trained as chefs.
Namholo said the impressive bearing, immaculate turnout and outstanding standard of drill displayed by correctional services’ new recruits indicate the urge to pursue service excellence.
The recruits have been trained extensively, including in such areas as human rights, first aid, prevention of suicide and self-harm, basic correctional duties, self-defence, customer care, HIV/AIDS communication skills, listening and so forth.
“In addition to the traditional role of safe-keeping and custody of inmates, you have been exposed to a more extended role, which will enable you to interact with inmates in a very professional way and to perform as a first aider, social worker, councillor and negotiator as the occasion demands,” said Namholo.
He said the determination and resolve “evident on the young faces today reflects conviction as well as eagerness to venture into a challenging career that demands devotion and commitment towards the supreme cause of public safety”.
“Very soon, a correctional centre for women will become operational in Windhoek,” said Namholo.
Namholo urged the new officers not to use their salaries on “wrong things”, saying it will lead them into unnecessary debts.