Partnerships Drive Success of UWI’s Seeds of Hope Prison Education Programme

By Aabigayle McIntosh

The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus (UWIFIC)is touting the benefits of its Seeds of Hope programme which provides an opportunity for individuals who are incarcerated to engage in academic learning.

Established in 2022, the programme has received high commendations from the government of Antigua and Barbuda, residents, the Diaspora, and benefactors who have contributed technical resources and scholarships to support the continuous education programme.

Just recently fourteen inmates of His Majesty’s Prison received Certificates of Proficiency, while two of their peers were awarded Honour Student prizes at the 2024graduation ceremony of the Lifelong Learning Unit (LLU) the University at the UWIFIC.

Executive Director of the LLU Paula C. M. Lee notes while funding from diverse stakeholders is welcomed, as skillsets continue to evolve additional resources will be required to support inmates in their pursuit of lifelong learning.

She notes the UWI’s digital platform has been recognized as a key enabler to the Seeds of Hope programme.

“It offers inmates opportunities to participate in multiple professional development courses, and interactively engage with tutors and students. Assuredly, this delivery modality supports established safety and security protocols. Individuals are not required to attend classes beyond the confines of the penal institution,” Lee said.

“Meanwhile, studies have shown that Education is an effective remedy toward reducing recidivism. Having served prison terms, individuals experience numerous challenges when attempting to reintegrate into society. Their circumstances are further compounded by minimal support from family and friends due to the stigma associated with imprisonment,” she continued.

The Superintendent of Prisons Colonel Trevor Pennyfeather agrees that with research that emphasizes the transformative benefits of education in prisons.

He believes that The UWI FIC has provided invaluable partnership and support in advancing the rehabilitation initiatives of HMP

The sentiments of the 2024 Lifelong Learning Unit The UWI FIC Top Student, Kenisha Whyte is testimony that Education is indeed a game-changer.

“This achievement is unselfishly shared with my colleagues from His Majesty’s Prison. The Lifelong Learning Unit courses have been a beacon of hope, a sanctuary of knowledge, and a place of redemption. We are embracing the challenges of continuous education, enduring the limited hours of studying, overcoming the moments of self-doubt, and triumphing in our successes. Not only have we grown academically – personally and psychologically, we are navigating the complexities of our current circumstances while striving for a brighter future”.