UNICEF’s Lifelong Impact: From Detention to Graduation

Building Futures through Education, Vocational Skills, and Social Support

Majed Hussein is a devoted social worker who has been with the center for more than 23 years. Having served as the director for a few years, Majed, who has worn multiple hats within the reformatory, acknowledges the practical impact of UNICEF’s involvement: “UNICEF has been here from early 2016 supporting various programmes, including vocational training in carpentry, computer skills, sewing, arts, and appliance repair, equipping individuals with skills for a fresh start upon release.”

The reformatory’s commitment to holistic development includes initiatives like expanding and improving schools for juveniles and a library provided by UNICEF. “This reformatory center has a school for classes from the 7th to the 9th grade. For later stages, we provide essential support to ensure the completion of studies through external exams,” Majed says.

“We’ve supported a student in completing school, providing necessary paperwork, and facilitating external exams. This year, the student not only passed the 12th grade with an impressive 72 per cent average, but also received assistance to apply to university for a bachelor’s degree,” he adds. Social workers, like Majed, extend efforts beyond academics, tirelessly preparing juveniles for reintegration.

Halat Abdulkarim, the current director, affirms UNICEF’s influence. “UNICEF consistently provides vocational training and prioritizes psychosocial well-being through dedicated social workers,” she says. “UNICEF provides legal representation and support to the children in conflict with the law through dedicated lawyers and has been instrumental in establishing a nursery for the children who are accompanying their imprisoned mothers,” she elaborates.

Challenges persist in the reintegration process, however. “Finding jobs for released juveniles remains a challenge,” Halat explains. “We rely on UNICEF’s continued support to work with the Government to find solutions and address these gaps, ensuring a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy.”