Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan has said the government aims to help inmates establish their own construction companies after their release, rather than working under others.

Speaking at the inauguration of the new office building at Asseyri Prison, the minister said the work carried out by inmates and prison officers demonstrates their skills. He said the government plans to further develop those skills by providing training in project management, financial management and other business-related areas.

"We want to see contract groups that can lead on their own," Ihusaan said, adding that rehabilitation programmes should focus on both technical and entrepreneurial skills.

The new office building replaces the previous 400-square-foot facility and includes a meeting room and classroom. During the ceremony, the minister also laid the foundation stone for a new kitchen to improve dining facilities at the prison.