FIJI Corrections Service Commissioner Auta Moceisuva says public perception remains a major challenge when it comes to reintegrating ex-offenders into communities.
Mr Moceisuva said many people still see prisons mainly as places for punishment rather than rehabilitation.
“That is a general perception among the public, because prisons have traditionally been seen as places where offenders are sent for punishment after committing offences,” he said.
However, he said this view was slowly changing through awareness programs carried out across the country.
He said programs such as the Yellow Ribbon Campaign are helping communities better understand the role of rehabilitation.
“Through advocacy and education, we are promoting the idea that prisoners are still members of society.”
He said inmates undergo rehabilitation programs while in custody to help prepare them for life after release.
“We run a number of programs inside correctional facilities to support their return to society.”
He said the signing of memorandum of understanding with 13 provinces shows that more communities are now accepting ex-offenders back into society.
He said this shift was important for successful reintegration and reducing reoffending.
