By eastafrican gazette
Officers in-charge of prisons within the Mid- North region have undergone customer care, public relations and community engagement training to enhance their public relation skills.
Frank Baine the prison publicist observed that, “The training is aimed at enhancing customer care and public relations skills among prison officers as well as promote community engagement and awareness of Uganda Prisons Service’s activities and initiatives.”
Baine made these remarks while officiating at the training held at the Margherita Palace Hotel in Lira on Tuesday where he emphasized the importance of public relations in shaping the image and effectiveness of Uganda Prisons.
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The publicist observed that “There is need to stress the importance of humane treatment, active listening, and understanding, particularly towards prisoners noting that they are the primary customers of the prison system.”
Baine reminded prison officers to exercise caution, consideration, and humility in their interactions with all customers while promoting a culture of respect and empathy within Uganda Prisons Service.
He stressed that effective communication and maintaining positive relationships with the public and stakeholders are significant for building trust and support, which are essential for the success of rehabilitation and reintegration programs.
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Apollo Ankunda the Commissioner of Prisons in charge of Regional and International Corporation stressed that understanding operational procedures is crucial for maintaining order and efficiency within prison’s department.
“Every officer must have a deep understanding of their duties and the regulations governing our operations. This knowledge is essential for executing our responsibilities effectively and upholding the rule of law,” Ankunda stated.
Officers should not simply regard themselves as just enforces but as representatives of Uganda Prisons Service he advised.
“Our conduct, both in and out of uniform, reflects on the entire service. We must strive to embody the values of integrity, discipline, and professionalism in all our actions,” Akankunda emphasized.