Launching a program to rehabilitate and empower inmates at the Punitive and Correctional Institution in Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah, December 29 / WAM / The Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Public Policy Research announced the launch of an integrated program aimed at rehabilitating and empowering inmates in the Punitive and Correctional Institution in Ras Al Khaimah, according to an approach based on evaluation and the use of best international practices in the fields of rehabilitation and community reintegration.

The program embodies the organization’s commitment to supporting education, vocational training, and mental health paths, while providing practical paths that enable inmates to integrate positively into society after release.

It also offers an innovative approach to rehabilitation, addressing a number of core causes of recidivism and reducing recidivism and recidivism rates.

The program, which began its implementation and will continue for eighteen months, is supported by a number of partners, and seeks to enhance family stability, support social cohesion, and improve community security in general.

The program is based on a comprehensive evaluation process to measure the inmates’ levels in Arabic, English, and mathematics, in addition to basic psychological and social indicators. Based on the results of these assessments, individual educational and rehabilitation paths are designed to ensure that each participant receives appropriate support tailored to his or her needs.

Dr. Natasha Ridge, Executive Director of the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Public Policy Research, said that this program is based on a firm belief that effective rehabilitation begins with understanding the needs of individuals, noting that providing education and training within penal institutions is a long-term investment in the security and stability of society, and through this initiative, we seek to provide real opportunities for inmates to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society after release.

For his part, Colonel Thiab Al-Harash, Director of the Punitive and Correctional Institution Department at Ras Al Khaimah Police, said that this program represents an important step in enhancing the rehabilitative role of punitive and correctional institutions, by focusing on education, skills development, and psychological support, in order to create an organized environment that encourages taking personal responsibility, creating positive behavioral change, and preparing to integrate into society, and these initiatives contribute directly to improving institutional outcomes and enhancing community security and cohesion.

The program includes three main integrated axes, including basic education and life skills development by enhancing reading, writing and numeracy skills, communication skills, and self-discipline.

And accredited vocational training, where vocational training programs are provided with internationally recognized certificates, which enhance the readiness of inmates to engage in the labor market.

Psychological support and awareness programs, which provide psychological counseling sessions, behavioral therapy, and awareness programs aimed at promoting mental health and building a positive identity.

The program is implemented in cooperation with a number of educational and training bodies accredited locally and internationally, to ensure the quality of implementation and the compatibility of programs with the needs of the labor market, such as AMIDEAST, which is accredited by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority in Dubai, Lootah Technical Center and Spearhead Training Center, which contribute to providing training in vocational skills. Specialized organizations also participate, such as the “Irada” Center for Treatment and Rehabilitation, which provides specialized psychological support and addiction rehabilitation services.

The program will be implemented during the period 2025-2027, with a systematic evaluation conducted at the end of each cycle to measure the educational, psychological and social impact.

The results of the evaluation will be used to develop the program in the future and potentially expand its scope, making it an evidence-based model that is more widely applicable.

This program reflects the role of the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Public Policy Research, as a research institution committed to developing practical and sustainable policy solutions to address complex social challenges. It also contributes to achieving the UAE’s vision for comprehensive development and the reform strategy that establishes rehabilitative justice, in line with a broader commitment to supporting and promoting human rights.

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