By Aabigayle McIntosh

Members of Corporate Antigua and Barbuda have stepped up to assist in the rehabilitation of inmates at His Majesty’s Prison. CIBC First Caribbean is the latest entity to donate six computers to the penal institution, specifically for the benefit of inmates enrolled in the Life Learning Unit at the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus.

Several inmates are pursuing online courses with the unit, which seeks to expose adult learners in the workplace to a diverse range of options to further boost capacity and sharpen their skills. Executive Director of the LLU, Paula C.M. Lee, said the donation was made possible following an interaction with the CIBC Caribbean team at the 2024 Fired Up event.

“I was motivated to request computers for use by the residents of His Majesty’s Prison who are undertaking studies in the Seeds of Hope program at the Lifelong Learning Unit of The UWI FIC,” Lee explained.

She added, “Last year, three laptops were received from the Board of Education. Additionally, Mrs. Venessa Kelsick donated one year’s free internet access to ensure seamless connectivity to online classes.”

Lee outlined that, notwithstanding these contributions, the E-Learning Centre within HMP remained woefully under-resourced. She added that the recent gift from CIBC could improve the learning experience for students and help them gain skills and earn credentials.

Platinum Banking Manager for CIBC Caribbean, Michael Roach, said the bank’s collaboration with the Seeds of Hope and the University of the West Indies Lifelong Learning Unit underscores a shared belief in the transformative power of education.

“At CIBC Caribbean, we recognize that education is a fundamental tool for personal and professional development. It opens doors, creates opportunities, and, most importantly, fosters hope.

“In line with our corporate responsibility, we are dedicated to supporting initiatives that enhance the lives of individuals and communities. We understand that having access to education and technological resources is crucial in today’s world. These computers are not just machines; they are gateways to knowledge, skills, and a brighter future,” he added.

Prison Superintendent Lieutenant Colonel Trevor Pennyfeather also expressed his gratitude to CIBC, indicating that this augurs well with the institution’s emphasis on rehabilitation.

“We believe in rehabilitation, and we think that as an institution, we have a mission to ensure that we can make these individuals productive and better citizens as they leave this institution,” Pennyfeather said.