The education program within Kenyan prisons is set to see 56 inmates graduating next month with law degrees.

As reported by KBC Radio Taifa, Principal Secretary for Correctional Services Salome Beacco emphasized that the government is shifting its focus from punishment to the rehabilitation of inmates.

“We have an education unit that provides formal education in prisons, ranging from primary to university level. Next month, 56 inmates will graduate with law degrees, demonstrating our commitment to empowering individuals through education,” said Beacco.

According to the Principal Secretary, the government has also advanced vocational training in 108 prison workshops, where inmates are acquiring skills in fields such as welding, carpentry, and computer engineering.

Recognizing agriculture as the backbone of the country, Beacco noted that correctional facilities are engaging in large-scale farming of crops like maize, tea, rice, and cotton.

“The prison farms show that our correctional facilities can be productive contributors to the economy. We invite partners in the agriculture sector to support our efforts,” she added.

Beacco confirmed that a recently opened maize milling station in Naivasha will help feed inmates while generating revenue for the government.

Additionally, the government plans to launch a software engineering program to create more employment opportunities for inmates after their release.

Currently, Kenya has a total of 137 prisons, including 46 women’s facilities and 148 probation and aftercare stations.