A non-governmental organisation, the Barak & Jael Foundation, has launched a nationwide initiative to fund skill acquisition programmes and West African Examinations Council (WAEC) fees for selected inmates in correctional facilities.
The initiative, announced on May 5 in Abuja, is in commemoration of the birthday of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, and reflects his advocacy for education and rehabilitation.
According to the Foundation, more than 50 inmates have been enrolled in vocational training, including tailoring, carpentry, ICT and cosmetology, alongside full sponsorship of their WAEC registration.
Executive Director of the Foundation, Ms. Kinsia Irek, described the intervention as a pathway to rehabilitation and reintegration, noting that education and skills development remain critical to reducing reoffending.
She said the programme aims to give inmates a renewed sense of purpose and opportunity for a better future.
The Officer in Charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja, Assistant Controller of Corrections Sunday Ejeh, commended the initiative and pledged that the support would be effectively utilised to aid inmates’ reformation.
The Foundation said it is working closely with correctional authorities to ensure the sustainability of the programme, with some beneficiaries already preparing for upcoming WAEC examinations.