Building bridges, breaking barriers

REHABILITATION

By MARY-ANNE POKAWIN
IN the lush landscapes of the Eastern Highlands lies the Bihute Correctional Institute, a place of both rehabilitation and hope.
Nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant valleys, this correctional facility stands as a beacon of transformation for its female inmates.
The facilities of Bihute Correctional Institute are modest yet functional, with well-maintained buildings and ample space for various activities. However, what truly sets Bihute apart is its focus on empowering its female inmates through life skills projects.
Within the institute’s grounds, one can find thriving gardens bursting with colourful blooms and lush greenery. Here, the inmates learn the art of gardening, cultivating vegetables and fruits not only for sustenance but also as a therapeutic activity that nurtures their spirits.
In addition to gardening, the inmates engage in other practical skills such as bilum making, sewing, and hand crafts. Under the guidance of skilled instructors, they weave intricate patterns into traditional bilums, stitch together fabrics to create clothing, and craft beautiful handmade items that showcase their creativity and talent.
Amidst the daily routines and activities within Bihute, an extraordinary event unfolded one memorable International Women’s Day.
We express gratitude to Commanding Officer Bihute CS, Donald Apeti for allowing Bihute to host the Event for all the Women in Law and Justice of Eastern Highlands. Women from various sectors of law and justice in the province gathered at the Bihute Correctional institute to celebrate this significant occasion.
Representatives from the Bihute Correctional Institute, Goroka National Court and Goroka District Court, Department of Justice and Attorney-General, Office of the Public Prosecutor, Office of the Public Solicitor, Melanesian Institute, Department of Community Development and Religion, Kafe Urban Settlers Women Association, Eastern Highlands Family Voice, Care International PNG and Family PNG joined together. A total of 40 participants attended. Even only two members of the PNG Royal Constabulary graced the event with their presence.
The purpose of the gathering was clear: To break barriers and build bridges between all women working in law and justice in the province.
It was a momentous occasion, the first of its kind, where women from diverse backgrounds came together in solidarity and support.
Throughout the event, there were heartfelt tributes to fallen women officers who had dedicated their lives to serving their communities. Long-serving women were also honoured and celebrated for their dedication and contributions to the sector.
During the event, as we commemorated International Women’s Day and recognised women in the law and justice sector, we also honoured the dedication of those women who support their husbands in this field by managing households, cooking, cleaning, caring for children, ironing uniforms, and providing unwavering support. These are the women that also contribute to the law and justice sector of our country.
As the day ended, State Prosecutor lawyer Eva Nema Kale and I as event organisers were invited to visit the female inmates at Bihute Correctional. Bearing gifts and messages of encouragement, we shared moments of connection and compassion with these women who were on their journey of rehabilitation and renewal.
The visit left a profound impact on everyone involved, bridging the divide between the outside world and the confines of the correctional institute. It was a reminder that despite their circumstances, these women were valued members of society deserving of respect, dignity, and the opportunity for a second chance.
And so, amidst the tranquil beauty of the Eastern Highlands, Bihute Correctional Institute continued its mission of transformation, one life, one skill, and one celebration at a time.
l Mary-Anne Pokawin is a freelance writer