The PEMA Secretariat conducted a five-day workshop from December 20-24 convening representatives from the Royal Bhutan Police, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, and other key stakeholders such as Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment, Ministry of Education and Skills Development, Centre for Bhutan and GNH Studies, UNDP Bhutan. Together, the participants laid the groundwork for the Reintegration and Aftercare Centre that will be established at Yarjugang, Wangdue Phodrang.

Dasho Dechen Wangmo, Hon’ble Head of The PEMA Secretariat inaugurated the workshop on December 20, 2024. A key highlight was a presentation on ‘Offender Reintegration and Aftercare: Guiding Principles and Practical Issues’ by Professor Mark Brown of The University of Sheffield, UK. The sessions on governance and sustainability were skillfully facilitated by Aum Siok Sian Pek-Dorji, while Dr. Tshewang Phuntsho, Lecturer, from the Gedu College of Business Studies moderated the sessions on some group sessions. Professor Dema Lham from the Jigme Singye Wangchuck School of Law led the drafting of Memorandum of Understanding to be signed by the key partners of the Centre.

The Centre will foster resilience and promote psychosocial and economic empowerment of persons who are incarcerated, enabling them to reintegrate into society as productive and contributing citizens.