Phuket prison inmates to train as boatbuilders in rehabilitation project

In a bid to provide vocational training and equip prisoners with valuable skills for their post-release lives, ten inmates from Phuket Prison are set to begin training as boatbuilders on May 8. The project comes after a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Phuket Provincial Prison and Roeng Varee boatbuilders, based in Chalong.

The signing took place at Phuket Provincial Hall and was attended by Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew. Krisana Tipayachan, Commander of the Phuket Provincial Prison, signed on behalf of the prison and Roeng Varee Managing Director Krisada Pichetphonsanon represented the boatbuilding company. Kritsana Tipayachan explained that the initiative is part of a broader effort by the Department of Corrections to create outplacement opportunities for inmates to receive vocational training.

The goal is to prepare prisoners with skills that can be applied upon release so they can become financially independent and support themselves and their families. Roeng Varee currently works on around 50 boats per year, which includes services such as construction, repairs, and customer-specific refits.

Under the terms of the MoU, the project will initially involve ten inmates working at the boatyard for a three-month period. The work schedule will consist of Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm, with weekends off. The participating inmates will receive a daily wage in Phuket, equivalent to US$11.29, for their labour.

To qualify for the programme, inmates must have less than three years and six months remaining on their sentences. Eligible drug offenders must be first-time offenders and must not have committed a major offence.

Krisana Tipayachan expressed sincere hope that society will embrace the rehabilitation of inmates working in establishments outside the prison. This opportunity not only serves as a source of income and reduces family expenses, but also paves the way for a fresh career start post-release.