'Let us review curriculum of borstal institutions'

There is need for a review of the education curriculum of borstal (prison for young offenders) institutions in Kenya to ensure it conforms to the market needs and modern trends.

Co-ordination Principal Secretary Josephta Mukobe said vocational training offered in the institutions was instituted several years ago, hence the need for an overhaul.

"The world has evolved and there is need to evolve with it. This can be achieved through education and training that are in conformity with the modern world," said Mukobe when she was hosted at Shikusa Borstal Institution yesterday for a New Year party.

Poor parenting

"We need to equip our youths with skills that can enable them access employment easier when they finish their sentences. We have to introduce modern and technological courses like ICT, mechanics, mobile and computer repairs and talent development," he added.

Currently, the curriculum developed by National Industrial Training Authority (Nita) offers the young inmates courses in carpentry, masonry, tailoring, welding and electrical wiring.

While congratulating the inmates who sat for Kenya Certificate of Primary School Education (KCPE) last year, Mukobe blamed poor parenting for the increased cases of youths engaging in crime.

She regretted that parents seem to have abdicated their duties to teachers and religious leaders, and urged parents to offer guidance and counselling to their children.

"Parents need to stand up and teach their children morals and respect for the law. We are now more concerned with providing for families that we have even forgot about our vulnerable children. Youths need to contribute positively in this country," she said.

Shikusa registered 31 pupils last year for KCPE. Zakayo Peter, 17, who was imprisoned in 2012 for petty crime, was top with 348 marks. The institution had a mean grade of 251.097 marks.