Daud Olatunji
No fewer than 49 inmates of the Old Abeokuta Custodial Centre in Ogun State have graduated from courses in computer desktop publishing and basic education.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the graduation ceremony, held on Wednesday, showcased the centre’s commitment to reform and empowerment through education.
The welfare officer of the custodial centre, Awesu AbdulHakeem, announced the graduation, detailing that 27 inmates completed the computer desktop publishing programme, while 22 inmates graduated from the basic education course.
The event was well-attended, featuring dignitaries such as the Comptroller of Corrections, Ogun State Command, Ayodeji Adepoju, and the Officer-in-Charge of the Old Abeokuta Custodial Centre, Oladeji Ayoola. Also present were officials from the Agency for Mass Education in Abeokuta and the Prison and Law Abiding Organisation International (PRALAG).
Awesu praised the custodial centre’s leadership for their support and facilitation of the educational programs.
He expressed gratitude to PRALAG for their sponsorship and the Agency for Mass Education for their logistical support.
He also acknowledged the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) for providing scholarships to the inmates, a gesture, he said has significantly bolstered the educational opportunities available within the centre.
Since the inception of the educational and vocational programmes in 2018, the initiative has produced 124 graduates and 164 NCE holders, according to Awesu.
He said this reflects a strong commitment to equipping inmates with valuable skills that can aid their reintegration into society upon release.
In his address, Comptroller Adepoju commended the graduates for their dedication and achievements, encouraging them to maintain hope and perseverance despite their incarceration.
He highlighted the importance of the acquired skills in improving their future prospects and quality of life after release.
Officer-in-Charge Oladeji Ayoola, while speaking at the ceremony, raised concerns about the stigmatisation faced by former inmates, urging for a more inclusive and supportive societal approach.
He called on PRALAG and other organisations to continue their advocacy and educational initiatives to reduce stigma and promote reintegration.
Officials from PRALAG and the Agency for Mass Education reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the inmates.
PRALAG particularly emphasised the importance of preparing inmates for life after incarceration, suggesting that they be informed three months prior to any inmate’s release to facilitate better reintegration planning.
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