CORRECTIONAL SERVICES PS LAUNCHES NAIROBI BOYS PROBATION HOSTEL LIBRARY

By Nicholas Kigondu 
The State Department for Correctional Services has prioritized education and training in its reformation and rehabilitation efforts targeting young offenders.
Speaking at the Nairobi Boys Probation Hostel during the launch of a library, Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco said empowering young offenders with knowledge remains key to their eventual transformation and reintegration back in the society.
“Through formal schooling, vocational training, and comprehensive programs, we equip our young clients with tools for productive, crime-free lives after their release.” Observed the PS.
She termed the launch of the library, whose concept is planned to be replicated across all the 8 probation hostels in the country, as a transformative step toward turning correctional learning spaces into vibrant hubs of knowledge, creativity, and positive engagement. 
While lauding the International Children's Aid Network for the support towards the establishment of the library, the PS said such collaborations help bridge existing resource gaps.
Probation and Aftercare Service Secretary Dr. Christine Obondi said the launch of the library was a testament to the commitment of the State Department to empower young offenders and ultimately reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
Welfare, Sports and rehabilitation Director at the Kenya Prisons Service Susan Majere described the launch as a significant journey towards deepening opportunities for young offenders.
Education and training director at the State Department Dr. Margaret Mutuma termed the latest development as proof that the department remains committed to positively transforming the lives of young offenders through education.
The library will provide both physical and digital learning resources for the beneficiaries through the use of Kolibri educational platform and toolkit which provides a large library of open educational resources, such as lessons, digital story books and interactive exercises, that can be accessed without an internet connection.
According to Dr. Marc Hauser, of the International Children's Aid Network, the resource center will open up a world of alternatives for the beneficiaries and cushion the young offenders from the vulnerability arising from past trauma.