Morenikeji Adebayo
In a remarkable display of hope and rehabilitation, ten inmates of the Ibara Correctional Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, recently graduated from various educational programs in partnership with the Yewa Central College of Education.
The event, which also saw the matriculation of 28 new students, served as a significant milestone in the lives of the incarcerated individuals, highlighting the impact of education in transforming their futures.
The ceremony was a tribute to the late Prof. David Bamgboshe, the founder of the Yewa Central College of Education, who was a staunch advocate for education and empowerment.
His legacy continues to inspire change and growth among the inmates, as they benefit from educational opportunities while serving their sentences.
The Controller of the Correctional Centre, Kamoru Abioye, who gave an impassioned speech during the event, emphasized the center’s commitment to the well-being and rehabilitation of the inmates.
He stated that the core objective of the facility was not only to incarcerate individuals but also to foster a positive attitude shift through education.
Abioye further highlighted the ongoing efforts to provide inmates with the necessary certifications that would better their lives once they re-enter society after serving their time.
“I am pleased with the progress we have made in facilitating the education of inmates, many of whom are now graduating with qualifications that will open new doors for them upon release,” said Abioye.
“This partnership with Yewa Central College of Education is one of the many initiatives we have undertaken to create an environment of rehabilitation, growth, and opportunity for those in our care.”
Superintendent of Corrections, Awesu Abdulhakeem, provided a comprehensive overview of the center’s educational achievements.
He revealed that the graduation of 10 inmates and the matriculation of 28 others marked a significant achievement for the correctional facility, which has worked diligently to provide an enabling environment for willing participants.
Abdulhakeem also pointed out that this year’s ceremony was especially poignant, as it served to honor the contributions of Prof. David Bamgboshe to education and to the lives of those around him.
“As we celebrate the achievements of our students today, we also reflect on the lasting impact of Prof. Bamgboshe’s contributions to education.
He was not just a visionary but a mentor whose legacy continues to inspire transformation,” Abdulhakeem said.
The celebration was further marked by the presence of Dr. Mrs. Mary Oriyomi Bamgboshe, the wife of the late founder, who attended the event alongside the couple’s children.
Dr. Bamgboshe expressed her gratitude for the continued recognition of her husband’s efforts and the lasting impact he had on the lives of countless individuals.
She also praised the successful alumni of the correctional education program, some of whom have secured employment in both public and private sectors.
“I am deeply grateful for the continuation of my husband’s legacy and for the lives that have been positively influenced by his vision,” Dr. Bamgboshe said.
“It brings me joy to see that some of our former students are now working in reputable organizations, proving that education is indeed a powerful tool for change.”
Additionally, the Director of Corrections, Mr. Sanni Ojo Richard, took the opportunity to encourage the inmates to remain law-abiding and disciplined.
He urged them to familiarize themselves with the institution’s code of conduct and to continue striving for self-improvement throughout their time in the facility.
“Your journey towards reintegration into society begins with the choices you make today. Continue to abide by the law and stay focused on your education, as it is key to building a better future,” Ojo Richard advised.
The event also featured a lecture delivered by Prof. Mrs. Pat Okafor, representing the Chief Instructor Officer, Prof. IGU. In her speech, she emphasized the importance of education in reshaping lives and empowering individuals, regardless of their circumstances.
The ceremony concluded with the formal recognition of the graduating inmates and the matriculation of new students, all of whom are now part of an ongoing educational initiative aimed at fostering rehabilitation, personal growth, and successful reintegration into society.
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