Beyond Bars and Boundaries: Architecture as a Catalyst for Juvenile Reform and Reintegration in Pakistan

Abstract

In the 21st century, where the world unnoticeably suffers from the technological advancements, architecture is the powerhouse of the solutions; from physical to mental, and from psychological to criminological. Criminologically, people of all ages commit crimes which lead them to be taken to correction centers. However, correction centers in South Asia are far away from international standards. Pakistan, in specific, has the worst correction centers. Instead of becoming socially amicable, the criminals on the release from jails and detain centers, become more problematic to the societies. Furthermore, for juveniles, these centres are either non-existent or, if they exist, are the hubs for turning minor criminals into major criminals. No education, skill, and training are imparted to theses minors. This research is an attempt to provide an outline to make the juvenile correction centers as ideal places to learn, to transform, and to change the way they look at the world. In the design, among others, academic blocks would help the juveniles with academia, the vocational training areas would give them skills and expertise, the residential units would give them safer world to live in, and the sports complex will be helpful in acquiring sportsmanship and discipline. Upon first entry into such correction centers, juvenile will be a criminal; but, upon leaving, the juvenile will be no more a criminal but an asset to the nation.