Improving the conditions within prisons and rehabilitating detainees are highly prioritized by the government, says Vice President Faisal Naseem.

The VP made the statement while speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the new Medical Centre located within Maafushi Prison, on Monday.

Speaking at the ceremony, Naseem expressed confidence that the availability of further medical services at the prison premises would have a positive impact on the welfare and rehabilitation of inmates.

Further highlighting that President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's administration "gives high priority to improving the conditions within prisons and rehabilitating detainees," the vice president called on all personnel working in detention and rehabilitation to aim "to prepare all inmates with the skills to work, provide for themselves and become respected members of society again, upon their release."

The new Medical Centre at Maafushi Prison is equipped to provide services such as General OPD, emergency services, laboratory services, minor surgery, physiotherapy, X-ray services and telemedicine services. Inmates previously had to be transported off the island to receive these services.

The facility also includes a 10-person rehabilitation centre.

Also during Monday's visit to Maafushi, VP Naseem visited Maafushi School and Maafushi Health Centre.

While senior officials of the school briefed Naseem on the difficulties faced and further requirements for the smooth operation of the educational institution, he assured that these concerns will be shared with relevant government agencies to expedite solutions. Further, he spoke on ways for the government to support the health centre in improving the services provided to residents.

The Vice President was accompanied on his trip by the Minister of Health Ahmed Naseem, the Minister of Home Affairs Imran Abdulla, Minister at the President's Office Ahmed Sameer, as well as senior representatives from Maldives Correctional Service (MSC).