The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has matriculated 70 undergraduate inmates to take courses at its Special Study Centre in the Maximum-Security Custodial Centre, Enugu.
In an address during the 31st matriculation ceremony of the centre on Wednesday, Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, said the matriculation remained a milestone in NCoS’s commitment to using education as an instrument for reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration.
Represented by Assistant Controller-General of Corrections in-charge of Zone M, Prisca Oku, the Controller-General said that the NCoS would continue to strengthen correctional education and expand opportunities for academic, vocational and skills development across custodial centres.
“I, therefore, encourage our matriculating inmates to remain focused, uphold the rules and regulations of the University and the Service, and strive to become worthy ambassadors of the correctional education programme,” according to him.
He also said: “To the matriculating students, I also urge you to embrace this opportunity with seriousness, discipline and determination.
“Your present circumstances should not define your future; rather, let this opportunity equip you with the knowledge, skills and character needed to build a productive and responsible life beyond custody.
“Your academic journey is not merely about obtaining a qualification; it is also about transforming your mindset, broadening your horizons and preparing yourselves for meaningful reintegration into society.”
Addressing the gathering, Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Udoma Oji Udoma, said that the university had continued to grant quality and accessible higher education for all inmates by granting 100 per cent tuition-free education to them at any level.
Udoma, who was represented by Director, NOUN Enugu Study Centre, Prof. Loveth Ekwueme, noted that the university had consistently championed inclusivity to inmates,
“NOUN affirms its belief that education is a fundamental right, not a privilege,” he said. He said that the initiative reflected NOUN’s commitment to national development, social justice, and the rehabilitation of citizens who deserve a second chance.
“To our new students: today you pledge to uphold the values of scholarship, discipline, and integrity. Your enrolment signifies courage, determination, and the desire to transform your lives through knowledge. Remember that education is the most powerful tool for personal renewal and societal reintegration,” he said.
The Controller of Corrections in Enugu State, Mr Valins Obizue, encouraged inmates to take advantage of the free educational opportunities and avail themselves of educational attainment meant to better their lives.
Obizue appreciated the Controller-General of NCoS and NOUN for providing a veritable and accessible platform for reformation and academic uplift for inmates nationwide. In a welcome address, the Officer-In-Charge of NCoS Maximum-Security Custodial Centre, Enugu, Dr Sunday Igwe, said that the study centre started with a population of 12 students in July 2011 and has grown to 262 students currently.
Igwe noted that “the growth from 12 students to 262 students is not merely a numerical increase but represents 262 dreams, 262 aspirations, 262 opportunities and 262 journeys towards personal and professional development”.
He further said: “NCoS firmly believes that education is one of the most powerful instruments for human development, reformation, rehabilitation and preparation for eventual re-integration, empowerment and positive transformation, which is the aim of the Nigerian Correctional Service.
“Our custodial environment is not only about security and safe custody. It is also about preparing individuals for meaningful contributions to society. The presence and growth of NOUN academic activities within this environment demonstrates that education can flourish wherever there is commitment, discipline, and determination.
“NOUN remains and offers the foremost Open and Distance Learning opportunity in Nigeria.”
One of the matriculants, whose name is withheld, appreciated the Controller-General of NCoS and Vice-Chancellor of NOUN for providing the laudable educational reformative programme and making it seamless for all inmates.
The undergraduates were admitted into different programmes, which included: Public Administration, Peace and Conflict Resolution. Criminology and Security Studies, among others.
NewsBits reports that the event witnessed the oath-taking by the matriculants and the cutting of the matriculation cake, among other features.
