As a part of the Beyond the Wall Initiative by Legend Golden Care Foundation, on the 9th and 10th of May 2023, we donated some items to equip the E-Learning Center of the Suleja Correctional Center and make it fully functional. These items include,
15 desktops
1 laptop
Internet router, generator
Television sets,
An all in one printer.
We equally pledged to sponsor some students.
Correctional centers serve a crucial role in society, not only as places of punishment but also as institutions for reform and rehabilitation. Their primary objective is to provide inmates with the necessary tools and skills to reintegrate into society and become law-abiding citizens upon release. However, recidivism rates remain high, when inmates are released without skills and proper rehabilitation, they find it hard to reintegrate back into the society, as they have nothing to fall back on, they tend to embrace a life of crime.
E-learning centers have been established in Correctional centers, however, funding remains a major issue, and so these centers are mostly under-equipped and not functional.
Understanding Recidivism:
Recidivism refers to the relapse into criminal behavior by individuals who have received sanctions or intervention for previous offenses. It is a global issue, and Nigeria is witnessing a significant rise in recidivism rates, with statistics showing that over 60% of inmates are repeat offenders. Several factors contribute to this problem, including the lack of effective reintegration programs and the unemployability of ex-convicts.
Challenges in Reintegration:
One key factor contributing to recidivism is the absence of quality reintegration programs within correctional facilities. Inmates often lack the necessary support and guidance to navigate their reentry into society successfully. Without proper preparation, many individuals become institutionalized and struggle to readjust to life outside of prison. Additionally, the lack of employable skills or educational qualifications further hampers their chances of finding gainful employment.
The Role of Education:
Education plays a vital role in reducing recidivism rates and enabling successful reintegration. By providing inmates with access to quality education, including skill acquisition and certification programs, correctional centers can equip them with the tools needed to secure employment, become self employed and contribute positively to society. Education fosters personal growth, enhances critical thinking abilities, and opens doors to better opportunities, both during and after incarceration.
The Suleja Correctional Center Project:
The project focused on the Suleja Correctional Center is one effort to address the difficulties Nigerian inmates face. This project aims to donate and equip the education center within the facility with functional computers and internet connectivity. Currently, the center lacks the necessary resources to offer online examinations and certifications, forcing inmates to be transported to better-equipped facilities. This transportation incurs additional costs and security risks.
The Impact of the Project:
By providing the Suleja Correctional Center with functional computers and internet access, inmates will have the opportunity to receive lectures, prepare for examinations, and obtain educational certifications within the facility. This initiative will significantly enhance their employability and increase their chances of successful reintegration into society. Equipped with essential skills and qualifications, these individuals will be better positioned to secure employment and contribute positively to their communities upon release.
Conclusion:
The issue of recidivism in Nigeria calls for a comprehensive approach to prison reform. By prioritizing education and reintegration programs, we can break the cycle of crime and transform the lives of inmates. The project focused on equipping the education center in the Suleja Correctional Center with functional computers and internet access, which is a significant step towards empowering inmates through education. With improved access to educational resources, these individuals can develop their potential, become employable, and find hope and purpose in their lives. Ultimately, a society that invests in the rehabilitation and reformation of its inmates builds a stronger foundation for a safer and more prosperous future.