A total of 287 participants have completed the Juvenile Justice Training Programme to date, State Minister for Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ahmed Siddeeq has said.

The remarks were made during the certificate awarding ceremony for the 11th Juvenile Justice Training Programme, conducted by the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) with the support of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The ceremony was held on the 9th of this month.

Speaking at the ceremony, Siddeeq said the training programme, which has been conducted continuously by the DJJ since 2022, has so far trained 287 individuals working to support the country's juvenile justice system.

He said those who completed the programme are equipped to contribute to the proper upbringing and protection of future generations, adding that the training is a legal requirement under the Juvenile Justice Act and its accompanying regulations. He also noted that the DJJ continues to fulfil this responsibility in line with its mandate.

He also expressed appreciation to the UNODC for its continued support in conducting the Juvenile Justice Training Programme.

He said building a better future depends on ensuring children receive proper guidance and care, adding that investing in children today would help create a stronger generation in the future.

The five-day programme was held from the 5th to the 9th of this month. It aimed to strengthen the juvenile justice system and enhance the capacity of professionals working within the sector. A total of 29 participants completed the 11th Juvenile Justice Training Programme and received certificates.