Commissioner Urges Integrity as Correctional Service Marks First Graduation from Accredited Prison Training

The Maldives Correctional Service marked a milestone with the graduation of its inaugural cohort from the ‘Certificate 1 in Basic Correctional Officers Training’ programme. Addressing the newly qualified officers, Commissioner of Prisons Hassan Zareer delivered a pointed appeal for integrity, urging them not to compromise their professional responsibilities for personal financial gain, specifically urging officers never to trade their professional integrity for personal financial benefit.

Of the 27 officers who enrolled in the programme, 22 completed the training. Commissioner Zareer reminded them that the ceremony did not signify the end of their education, but rather the beginning of a profound responsibility. He described correctional officers as custodians of safety, education, and justice, highlighting their indispensable role within the national justice system.

The training programme, accredited at Level 1 under the Maldives National Qualifications Framework by the Maldives Qualification Authority, is structured across four modules. It is designed to equip recruits with the essential skills and responsibilities required for service in correctional facilities.

During his address, Commissioner Zareer outlined the officers’ core duties: ensuring the safety and welfare of both staff and inmates, and upholding the dignity and rights of those incarcerated. He called on the graduates to maintain moral fortitude throughout their careers and to foster a deep sense of devotion to Islam and national identity. The commissioner also encouraged them to apply their newly acquired skills toward the rehabilitation of inmates, reinforcing the transformative potential of their work.

The ceremony, held on Sunday evening, also recognised individual excellence. Prison Private Ibrahim Naseer was named best all-round officer. Prison Private Shahmad Shameem and Prison Private Aishath Imsha Areef received honours as the fittest male and fittest female officers, respectively. The Ivory Platoon was awarded Best Platoon among the graduating group.

To formally induct the officers into their roles, Magistrate Shifna Ahmed Sadiq of the Maafushi Magistrate Court, Kaafu Atoll, administered the official oath, concluding the evening with a reaffirmation of duty and service.