The Uganda Prisons Service has registered another milestone in inmate education, following impressive performance by candidates from prison schools in the recently released Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations.
At Uganda Government Upper Inmate Prison School, Luzira, 40 candidates were registered for the examinations. Of these, 39 sat the exams, while one candidate did not.
At Mbarara Main Prison Inmates’ Secondary School, all 12 registered candidates sat for the examinations.
Notably, all inmates who sat the examinations qualified for the UCE certificate, making them eligible to proceed to the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) and continue with their studies while serving their sentences.
The successful candidates expressed joy and gratitude for the opportunity to pursue education while in custody. Many shared aspirations of becoming professionals in fields such as law, business administration, education, accounting, and corporate leadership. They commended the Commissioner General of Prisons for his leadership and commitment to giving inmates a second chance through education, saying his dedication to service and equality has restored their hope for a brighter future.
The Uganda Prisons Service has established a strong framework for inmate education at all levels. For over two decades, formal education programs have been successfully implemented across prison facilities nationwide. Prison schools consistently register candidates for national examinations each year, supported by qualified teachers, structured learning programs, and effective coordination with national education authorities to ensure quality standards are maintained.
Through this robust education system, many former inmates have completed their studies, acquired valuable skills, and successfully reintegrated into society. Education remains a central pillar in the Service’s rehabilitation and reform agenda.
This latest achievement underscores the transformative power of education in correctional settings. It reaffirms that with the right support and opportunity, every individual has the potential to change and build a better future.
