NOUN awards degrees to six inmates at Kuje prison

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has awarded degrees to six inmates of the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja, highlighting the power of education in rehabilitation and societal reintegration.

Speaking at the ceremony in Abuja, the Controller General of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche, praised the graduates for their resilience and determination, noting that they pursued various NOUN programmes while in custody.

According to a statement by the NCoS Command Public Relations Officer, Samson Duza, two of the graduates received Master’s Degrees in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, while four others earned Bachelor’s Degrees in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, Political Science, Criminology, and Security Studies.

Represented by the Deputy Controller General, Dr. Amos Kupan, Nwakuche emphasized that education transforms lives, builds capacity, and demonstrates that incarceration can be an opportunity for growth rather than a dead end.

He added, “The Service will continue to foster skills and educational opportunities that prepare inmates for lawful livelihoods and a better future after release.”

In his welcome address, the Controller of Corrections, FCT Command, Christopher Jen, congratulated the graduates and urged them to use their certificates to improve their lives.

He encouraged them to continue their education and become positive ambassadors of the custodial centre.

Representing NOUN Vice-Chancellor, the Director of the NOUN Special Study Centre, Dr. Francis Enobore, lauded the 13-year partnership with NCoS, describing the programme as a “pathway of hope.” Enobore highlighted NOUN’s open and distance learning model as a tool for empowering marginalized groups, stating that the graduates are living proof that “learning heals, equips, and restores dignity.”

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Abba Kyari expressed gratitude to the NCoS and NOUN for the opportunity to study while in custody, noting that the experience restored their sense of purpose and would benefit them long after release.

The event also featured counselling sessions focused on re-entry, skill development, and community reintegration.

The graduates pledged to model positive change and contribute meaningfully to society upon their release.