The convocation of the 22nd batch of the basic course for prison officers was held at the Academy of Prisons and Correctional Administration (APCA) on Thursday.
The batch consisted of 16 officers with the ranks of jailors, assistant jailors and deputy superintendents from the neighbouring State of Andhra Pradesh, said V. Karupannan, director-in-charge of APCA. Their training commenced in June 2018 and covered subjects including prison and correctional administration, sociology and social work, criminology and victimology, criminal law, human rights, computer applications, forensic science and management.
There were outdoor activities such as firing, physical training, and self-defence techniques. In addition, they were trained in soft skills such as communication, team work, time management, stress management and life style skills. They were also equipped to tackle crises like hostage situations.
Field visits
The officers visited various prison institutions in the country such as Andaman and even had an opportunity to visit the Wagah Border.
Deputy Inspector General of Prisons, Vellore range, K. Jayabharathi, advised the batch to be vigilant. While handling prisoners is one of their responsibilities, they should also maintain a cordial relationship with colleagues and senior officials. She presented the certificates and medals to the trainee-officers. M. Satheesh Kumar, a jailor from Tamil Nadu received the medals in ‘Best in Subject’ and ‘Best All Rounder’ categories, while A. Parasuraman, another Jailor from the same State won under the ‘Best in Outdoor activities’. Professor of Psychology, APCA-Vellore, R. Kanagaraj, professor of social work, APCA-Vellore, Beulah Emmanuel and senior advocate T.M. Vijayaraghavelu were present.