PLUS, Rotary Club Showcase Vocational Training and Rehabilitation for Inmates in Karachi

Pakistan Legal United Society (PLUS), in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Karachi Silver Sands, organised a showcase highlighting vocational training, rehabilitation and access to justice for inmates.

The event, titled “Voices Behind the Bars,” took place on September 2 in Karachi. It brought together representatives from civil society, business, academia, healthcare, social organisations and the professional community.

The showcase highlighted the impact of practical skills, legal support and rehabilitation programmes. It also demonstrated how such initiatives can help inmates rebuild their lives and prepare for reintegration into society.

Vocational skills create new opportunities

The programme featured training in graphic designing, fine arts, solar technology and other technical skills. Participants also highlighted employment opportunities, legal assistance and access to justice.

The initiative focused on more than correction. It promoted confidence, dignity, creativity and meaningful livelihood opportunities.

Organisers said access to skills and justice can help individuals develop a stronger sense of purpose. Such support can also create pathways towards social reintegration.

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The event was attended by Sarwat Shah, founder of Khudi Wellness; Zahid Ansari of FPCCI; Dr Sultan, cardiologist; Nayyar Sultana, social activist; Mufti Abu Talha of Nusrat Trust; Noor Afshan Baloch of FPCCI; Nishat Alam of APHA; Erum Saim of Sakn-e-Sheza; Himadullah Sohoo of Rotary Club Karachi Kehkashan; and Anjum Ghafoor of Rotary Club Climate Avenue.

Artwork gives inmates a source of income

A key feature of the showcase was an exhibition of artwork created by women and juvenile inmates under the training programme.

The artwork was displayed for sale during the event. Organisers said all proceeds would go to the inmates.

The initiative gives participants an opportunity to support their families while they remain behind bars. It also provides a practical way to turn creative skills into income.

Stakeholders pledge support for rehabilitation

Participating stakeholders also pledged their support for sustaining vocational training and rehabilitation centres.

The commitment aims to ensure that inmates continue to receive opportunities in skills development, employment and access to justice.

Organisers described the pledge as an important step towards creating sustainable rehabilitation programmes. They stressed the need for continued cooperation between legal aid organisations, civil society and community service groups.

A step towards prison reform

The showcase marked a significant step in efforts to promote prison reform and social reintegration in Pakistan.

The event demonstrated how partnerships can create practical rehabilitation models. These partnerships can connect legal assistance with education, vocational training and economic opportunities.

PLUS and the Rotary Club of Karachi Silver Sands said they would continue working to strengthen such initiatives.

They also reaffirmed their commitment to access to justice, rehabilitation, empowerment, skills development and social reintegration.

The organisers said the broader goal is to help people behind bars build lives with purpose beyond prison.

About PLUS

Pakistan Legal United Society (PLUS) is a legal aid organisation focused on access to justice, legal assistance and rehabilitation support for marginalised communities.

Its work includes support for inmates and other vulnerable groups.

About Rotary Club of Karachi Silver Sands

Rotary Club of Karachi Silver Sands, RID 3271, is a community service organisation working on humanitarian service, vocational training and social empowerment initiatives across Sindh.