It was a moment of triumph and celebration at the Special Study Centre, Nigeria Correctional Service, Enugu, as ten out of fourteen prison inmate graduates proudly received their certificates on July 13, 2023. Representing the Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Olufemi Peters, was Modupe Adesina, the National Coordinator for the Special Study Centres, who applauded these resilient individuals for their exceptional achievements. The inmate graduates were part of the university's 12th Convocation Ceremony, a remarkable event held both online and physically on March 25, 2023, at the university's headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.

In his heartfelt speech, Prof. Peters commended the graduates for their unwavering determination against all odds. He proudly highlighted that NOUN offers free education up to the PhD level, urging them to take full advantage of this opportunity to further their education while still serving their sentences. The Vice-Chancellor emphasized that by doing so, they can become assets to themselves, their families, and society at large once they complete their prison terms.

Nicholas Obiakor, the Controller of Correction Service for Enugu State, represented by Acc James Abonyi, also extended his congratulations to the inmate graduates, recognizing their commitment and resilience. He encouraged the new matriculates to learn from the inspiring examples set by their senior colleagues.

The Desk Officer of the centre, Kelvin Iloafonsi, took a moment to share the centre's remarkable achievements. Among these were increased student enrollment, with one graduate currently pursuing a PhD thesis at UNN (University of Nigeria, Nsukka). Additionally, the centre celebrated the graduation of 14 prison inmates, both undergraduates and postgraduates. Kelvin expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for providing 100 sets of brand new computers and desks to the centre, enhancing the learning environment for the inmates.

As part of the university's 24th Matriculation Ceremony, fifty new inmate students were matriculated at the Special Study Centre. The matriculating oath was administered by Prof. Alexander Uche Onyia, the director of the Enugu Study Centre, and he was represented by Mr. Mathew Egede, the centre's PAR (Programme Academic Officer).

The event was truly a testament to the transformative power of education, breaking barriers and opening doors of opportunity even within the confines of correctional facilities. The dedication and resilience displayed by the inmate graduates inspire hope and emphasize the importance of providing accessible education to all, regardless of circumstances. As these remarkable individuals embark on their educational journeys, they stand as shining examples of the potential for positive change, both for themselves and for society as a whole.