INMATES from the Gizo Correctional Service of Solomon Islands (CSSI) handed over a wooden hymnal board to the Gizo United Church this week.
At the handover ceremony held at the Gizo United Church Hall, Wednesday, five inmates presented the board, which they crafted as part of ongoing rehabilitation program for inmates at the Malakerava Correctional Facility.
Gizo CSSI Officer Elizabeth Rokoto said, the hand-crafted hymnal board is a testament to the skills and dedication of the inmates, who have used their time in confinement to contribute meaningfully to the local church community.
She said the hymnal board was crafted a part of ongoing rehabilitation program for inmates to keep them engaged and prepared for community reintegration at the end of their confinement terms.
“This is to allow communities to have trust in them through the display of arts and craft they designed during their time inside the facility.
“This shows that they are not just locked up and do nothing, but they are very skillful and creative persons,” she said.
Ms Rokoto added that during their stay in confinement, inmates are productive, doing things that can benefit themselves and their families.
She thanked the pastor and the elders of the Gizo United Church for requesting the inmates to craft the board, which will be used by the church to place hymnal numbers during their service.
Gizo United Church Pastor Peter Siope thanked the inmates for the creativity they displayed through the hymnal board and praised them for a ‘wonderful job.’
Pastor Siope said they often visit inmates at the Malakereva Correctional Facility and it was great to see them doing great inside.
“For the record, those inmates also helped the church to paint our new church building.
“Now they give us a hymnal board, which displays the craftmanship spirit in them,” Pastor Siope added.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
