An instructor demonstrates face massage.

"There is a demand for reliable carers for the elderly. So we want to produce skilled maids who are socially acceptable and trustworthy," said department deputy director-general Kanchana Ketkarn. The department yesterday launched training courses for housekeepers and office maids as a part of a project to celebrate the 60th anniversary of His Majesty the King's accession to the throne.

The courses were offered to inmates serving short sentences at the Central Women's Correctional Institution, Thonburi Women's Correctional Institution and the Women's Correctional Institution for Drug Addicts, Kanchana said. The courses run until May 4.

The woman were selected for their records of good behaviour. None were convicted of theft-related crimes, as this kind of criminal behaviour is considered difficult to correct, Kanchana said.

"The project is aimed at preparing inmates for their imminent return to society," she said.

Trainees will be taught to take care of babies, the elderly and paralysed people, do housework, give massages and operate electronic equipment, said Kanok Karunamitr, director of the Rehabilitation Bureau.

The babysitting and elderly-care instructors were supplied by the Thai Red Cross, while massage is taught by masseuses from Wat Pho. The housekeeping instruction is by prison staff.

Those who complete the course will receive certificates documenting their special skills to ensure employers they are efficient and trustworthy.

As regards the inmates' future behaviour, the Corrections Department could not offer prospective employers an ironclad guarantee, so Kanok asked society to give them a chance.

"If the first 90 inmates can give the project a good reputation, it will make it easier for the next generation," he said.

Onnida Aditapsatit

The Nation