The Barak and Jael Foundation has unveiled a nationwide initiative to sponsor skill-acquisition programmes and pay the West African Examinations Council fees for selected inmates in correctional facilities.

The executive director of the foundation, Kinsia Irek, disclosed this during a ceremony in honour of the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, as part of activities marking his birthday on May 5.

This was disclosed in a statement on Tuesday.

Ms Irek said that over 50 inmates had been empowered through the foundation’s vocational training in tailoring, carpentry, information and communication technology, and cosmetology.

She also said that beneficiaries would enjoy full sponsorship of their WAEC fees to support their educational advancement while in custody.

According to her, the programme is targeted at motivating inmates within the Nigerian Correctional Service and equipping them with relevant skills for reintegration into society.

”This initiative is more than a birthday tribute; it is a beacon of hope for those seeking redemption,’’ she said.

Ms Irek revealed that the initiative was inspired by Mr Kalu’s commitment to prison reform, education and rehabilitation.

”We want to break barriers to education and skills acquisition and foster a Nigeria where no one is left behind.

”Education is the ultimate key to freedom. Together, we can turn inmates into innovators and reduce recidivism,” she also said.

Ms Irek added that the foundation was collaborating with correctional authorities to ensure the programme’s sustainability. She noted that early beneficiaries had expressed renewed hope, with many already preparing for the WAEC examinations later in the year.

The officer in charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja, Sunday Ejeh, expressed gratitude to the foundation for the intervention.

Mr Ejeh pledged that the facility would maximise the opportunity and support provided to ensure proper reformation of the inmates.

(NAN)