In a collaborative effort between the Kirikiri Medium Correctional Centre, Lagos State, the Access for Youths to Information Technology Initiative, and Anchor Heritage Initiative, two inmates emerged as winners of a contest, securing new laptops and coding books.
Mr. Ben-Rabbi Freedman, the Controller of the Lagos State Command of the Correctional Centre, commended the partners for their involvement in the training program. He also announced that the centre had obtained approval from the National Open University of Nigeria to confer diplomas upon inmates upon completion of their studies.
A total of twenty inmates received training in computer programming as part of the initiative.
Freedman urged the trainees to put their newly acquired skills into practice and leverage the program to acquire relevant expertise that would enhance their employability upon release. He also encouraged the inmates to maintain good behavior.
Mr. Olubodun Akinyele, the Managing Director of AYIITI, shared that the initiative, which dates back to 2011, aims to give back to society. Akinyele recounted how programming helped lift him out of poverty and provided him with valuable opportunities for personal growth.
He expressed his belief that his journey to success through programming could inspire others living in marginalized communities by making programming knowledge more accessible.
Bidemi Oladipo, the Chief Operating Officer of Anchor Heritage Initiative, emphasized that the program isn’t just about learning programming but about using it to create a better world. Oladipo revealed plans to collaborate with other tech companies to train inmates further, with the ultimate goal of facilitating their transition to the National Open University of Nigeria to obtain diploma certificates.
Among the notable figures present at the event were the Deputy Controller of Corrections for the Kirikiri Medium Custodial Centre, Mr. Michael Anugwa, and various other dignitaries.