The Bureau of Corrections (BOC) should consider implementing entrepreneurship modules in its prison reform program.
Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesperson Ignacio R. Bunye made this statement during his regular weekly column “The View From the Palace”.
According to Bunye the implementation of an entrepreneurship program for prisoners would provide a “means to be self-sufficient, build their self-confidence and belief in themselves” once they are released and undergo re-integration into society.
Bunye cited a program being implemented in the national penitentiary of Texas called the “Prisoner Entrepreneurship Program (PEP),” which can be “a new avenue for prison reform.”
He said the PEP targets specific inmates who have a knack for business and plan to open one in the future.
The program provides a venue for business people to donate, not just money, but their time and experience to teach prisoners skills that they will need to either enter the work force or start their own businesses.
Bunye pointed out that in the four years that the program has existed, PEP has recruited more than 200 top-level business executives to participate in more than 20 prison events that had never before taken place behind bars, including venture capital panels.
It has assisted 32 participants in the launch/operation of entrepreneurial businesses in industries including power washing, computer services, landscaping, catering and automotive repair, Bunye added. (PIA/Bohol)
