KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica is set to host correctional leaders, policymakers, technical experts and strategic partners from across the Caribbean for the 14th Annual Conference of the Association of Caribbean Heads of Corrections and Prison Services (ACHCPS) which runs from September 7 to 11.

The conference will be held at the AC Hotel Kingston under the theme, “One Caribbean, One Vision: Leading Together for a Safer Caribbean Corrections”.

It will provide a high-level regional platform for strengthening cooperation, sharing best practices and advancing the modernisation of correctional services throughout the Caribbean.

The Department of Correctional Services, as the host organisation, will welcome heads of corrections and prisons, government ministers, senior public officials, operational leaders, academics, development partners and private-sector representatives.

Commissioner of Corrections, Brigadier (Ret’d) Radgh Mason, said the conference comes at a critical time as correctional systems across the region respond to evolving security challenges and increasing demands for effective rehabilitation and reintegration.

“The challenges facing correctional services extend beyond national borders and require a coordinated regional response. This conference will allow us to share solutions, strengthen professional standards and build partnerships that support safer institutions, successful reintegration and more secure Caribbean societies,” Commissioner Mason said.

The conference sessions will focus on security and technology, legal and policy reform, and the health and well-being of staff and persons in custody.

Discussions will also address artificial intelligence and digital transformation, regional standards, staff professionalisation, correctional industries, mental health in custodial settings, and services for children and young people in conflict with the law.

A major feature of the conference will be the advancement of the Caribbean Correctional Academy, an initiative intended to support standardised training, professional certification, specialist development and leadership preparation across regional correctional services.

The programme will include an official opening ceremony, keynote presentations, plenary and technical sessions, a mini expo, networking opportunities and visits to selected correctional and probation facilities.

The conference is expected to produce practical recommendations, partnership commitments and collaborative initiatives aimed at improving institutional security, rehabilitation delivery, staff development and reintegration outcomes throughout the region.