A former Awka Correctional Centre inmate, in Anambra State, Livinus Ugwu, has earned a degree in peace and conflict resolution from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
Ugwu, was to be discharged from the centre in 2018 after serving a 21-year-jail term. He began the degree programme while in correctional facility.
Receiving the certificate from NOUN on Wednesday last week at the correctional centre, the visibly excited Ugwu attributed his success to commitment and dedication, while appreciating both the authorities of the Correctional Service and NOUN for the opportunity offered him to advance his education.
He urged people in such circumstances not to allow their condition to constitute a barrier to their progress in life, stating that such setbacks should be seen as a stopgap.
He said: “The world gathered today because of a one-time inmate like me. I learnt so many things while in prison, including tailoring and laundry because I humbled myself.
“I thank officers of the Correctional Service and NOUN for the opportunity. They were so passionate; they took us like their own children. I started from Warri before I was moved to Onitsha where I established adult education.”
While encouraging the other inmates, he noted: “Don’t allow the four corners (prison) to weigh you down. See the prison as a stepping stone to greater heights.”
Presenting the certificate on behalf of the university, Director, NOUN Awka Study Centre, Professor Scholastica Ezeribe said the programme was targeted at imparting lives, including providing education to the inmates.
The director said: “The programme is a clear demonstration of the importance the institution (NOUN) attaches to inmates’ education. We believe in rehabilitation through education, no one is a write-off.
“That’s why we give scholarships to inmates, even after being discharged; so as to equip them to be responsible citizens after leaving the prison walls.”
Speaking, the Controller, Anambra State Command, Nigerian Correctional Service, Pat Chukwuemeka, said the scheme, which he described as his brainchild, was initiated for the educational development and skill empowerment of inmates.