Handicrafts exhibition highlights rehabilitation at correctional facilities

KUWAIT: The Ministry of Islamic Affairs on Monday opened the fifth edition of the handicrafts and arts exhibition Hirfati Biyadi-5 at Assima Mall, highlighting ongoing efforts to rehabilitate inmates in correctional institutions and prepare them for reintegration into society. The exhibition features handmade products created by inmates from correctional institutions, rehabilitation centers and the Kuwait Center for Mental Health. It will run until January 15.

Speaking at the opening, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Islamic Affairs Suleiman Al-Suweilem said the ministry is keen, in cooperation and partnership with the Ministry of Interior, to care for inmates in correctional institutions and rehabilitation centers and contribute to their requalification to rejoin society.

Al-Suweilem said the exhibition reflects the importance of the work carried out by the ministry’s Rehabilitation and Reform Department, particularly its vocational training programs and rehabilitation activities implemented under an approved plan. These programs aim to achieve their intended goals by training and qualifying targeted groups and integrating them into society in a dignified and appropriate manner, he added.

He described the idea of inmates producing handmade crafts as a pioneering initiative that makes use of their energy and ideas in ways that benefit them and develop their skills. The continuation of the exhibition into its fifth edition this year, he said, confirms the success of the initiative and its positive outcomes.

Al-Suweilem expressed his appreciation to the Ministry of Interior, represented by the General Department of Correctional Institutions, for its significant efforts and prominent role in serving inmates. He said the long-standing cooperation between the two ministries has resulted in many positive outcomes that have helped improve the situation of numerous inmates. — KUNA