A total of 27 inmates at Meru Women’s GK Prison have celebrated a major milestone in their rehabilitation journey by graduating in various fields, including ICT, textiles, pastry, and entrepreneurship. The training was offered through a partnership between Kenya Methodist University (KeMU) and the Chandaria Foundation.
Among the graduates is Jelidah Gakii, who expressed gratitude to the correctional service, KeMU, and Chandaria Foundation for equipping her with valuable skills. “Currently, I am working there. The skills are very powerful. Thank you for the knowledge, skills, and experience. With that, I know we will make it in life,” she said.
The graduation ceremony was attended by key figures, including Director General of Kenya Prisons, Charles Mutembei, who commended the inmates for their dedication. He emphasized that the correctional department is committed to equipping inmates with market-driven skills to contribute to national development. Mutembei urged the graduates to inspire others through their achievements.
Lucy Gacheri, the officer-in-charge of Meru Women’s GK Prison, highlighted the significance of education and skills training in addressing the root causes of incarceration. “Education is a powerful tool for transformation. These programs give inmates hope and opportunities to reintegrate successfully into society,” she noted.
KeMU Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Ataya, reiterated that the university’s partnership with the prison aims to empower individuals to redefine their future. “We started this journey to show that people branded differently can change. A university opens your view of life. It gives you options,” he said.
The graduation ceremony is a testament to the importance of rehabilitation programs in correctional facilities, proving that education and skills training can transform lives. The graduates are living proof that change is possible when opportunities for learning are provided.
As the 27 women step into the next chapter of their lives, their success underscores the vital role of partnerships between educational institutions and correctional facilities in promoting social reintegration and national development.
