... Youth feature significantly in crime as both perpetrators and victims

Data from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) indicate that youth are perpetrators and victims of a significant percentage of criminal activities, with the 2017 statistics showing that 86 young persons were arrested for murder, 78 for shooting, and 148 for robbery.

Initiated under the stewardship of former Minister of State for National Security Pearnel Charles Jr in 2016, the We Transform programme aims to reduce the number of youth in correctional facilities reoffending and ensure the successful reintegration of these young people into society.

Charles said the programme has been embraced by officials within the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), who report positive behaviour change among wards involved in the programme.

“Both the staff and the youth have expressed enthusiasm. They are excited about the programme. There is a complete buy-in by the staff. They express that they have seen positive changes in the behaviour of the youth that they interface with and that the youngsters see a greater sense of purpose in themselves. When you ask them a question, they identify what they want to be and how they intend to get there. So far, there has been a lot of positive (feedback), and I am inspired by how engaged the staff members are,” he said.

Charles said he expects youth offenders to be empowered and supported through the We Transform programme, and “we expect that will cause them to avoid a life of crime, and this will have a positive impact on the levels of crime and violence that we see in Jamaica”.

Meanwhile, new state minister for national security, Rudyard Spencer, has lauded the programme, noting that it is a valuable resource in the Government’s strategy to rehabilitate youth offenders.

“The We Transform programme is something I have tremendous interest in and hope to take to higher heights. This is a good programme,” he says.

The programme is being implemented in two phases. Phase One, which is under way, engages youth in academics, vocational education, health and wellness activities, as well as life skills. Phase Two of the programme will include a mentorship component, internship/job placement, an annual competition, and an exposition where youth will be able to showcase their talents.

(*Name changed to protect the ward)