From November 12th to 14th, 2024, Vienna hosted a significant workshop event under the framework of the PRISGRADS project: “Mentoring Graduates into Careers in Prison.” This event, dedicated to the recruitment, training, and professional development of correctional staff, brought together experts and professionals from across Europe to collaborate on innovative solutions in the justice sector. The event marked an essential step toward building a European network of dedicated correctional professionals. It emphasized the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing new challenges in the field of justice.
We were privileged to be joined by representatives from Penitenciarul Timișoara and Centrul Educativ Buziaș, whose participation enriched the discussions with valuable insights and practical expertise.
Key Highlights from the Three Days:
- Interactive Learning Sessions: Participants engaged in dynamic sessions and group discussions focused on exploring innovative training methods and competency-based approaches for mentors working in correctional environments.
- Visits to Exemplary Institutions: A visit to Korneuburg Prison and the Austrian Prison Service Academy offered participants an up-close look at best practices in recruitment, training, and the operational frameworks of modern correctional facilities.
- Collaborative Working Groups. Participants collaborated in small groups to: Identify core competency areas for mentors, Develop targeted questions to assess these skills, Explore effective strategies for evaluating and integrating these competencies into training programs.
This event was not just an opportunity to learn but also to create meaningful connections and lay the groundwork for continued innovation in correctional services. The PRISGRADS project partnership is proud to lead these transformative efforts, and we thank all participants for their dedication and contributions to advancing the field of justice.
