A total of 77 inmates from Bomana Penitentiary in Port Moresby have received certificates after successfully completing a 13 week Literacy and Alpha Bible School program aimed at supporting rehabilitation and personal development.

The participants came from the Bomana Female Wing, Minimum Security Unit and High Security Unit.

Of the 77 participants, 22 inmates received certificates in the Literacy program, while 56 inmates completed the Alpha Bible Program, with one male inmate participating in both programs.

Commanding Officer of Bomana Prison Camp, Chief Superintendent Yelly Oiufa, acknowledged the support of 4th Man Ministries in partnership with One Tribe Ministries for delivering the Alpha Program and other rehabilitation activities at the institution.

Chief Superintendent Oiufa said the partnership has continued through a Memorandum of Agreement established around 2020, allowing regular rehabilitation programs to be provided for inmates.

"I am here today to attend the graduation of participants from the Alpha Bible School program, along with other programs. Since around 2020, we have had a Memorandum of Agreement with them. Under this agreement, they regularly come here to provide rehabilitation programs, including Bible school and other rehabilitation activities."

He said he has observed positive impacts from the programs, noting that they provide inmates with opportunities for personal growth and positive change.

The Alpha Program was delivered by One Tribe Ministries, an Australian-based organization, in partnership with 4th Man Ministries, a Papua New Guinea-based ministry, through an initiative supported by the Bomana Correctional Service Chaplaincy Office.

The program forms part of ongoing rehabilitation efforts at Bomana aimed at equipping inmates with knowledge, values and skills that can support their reintegration into the community.