The towering prison gates and iron bars are often associated with darkness, regret, and loneliness. Yet this year, Gujarat’s correctional facilities recorded progress in education, reflected in examination results and board certificates. With Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, who also holds the Home portfolio, and State Police Chief Dr K.L.N. Rao overseeing the initiative, jails across the State reported efforts focused on rehabilitation through education, officials said.

A total of 44 inmates lodged in different prisons across Gujarat cleared the Class 10 and Class 12 Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSEB) examinations this year, with 22 passing at each level. “The achievement is the direct result of sustained effort by the Office of Gujarat Prisons and Correctional Administration, whose approach has brought access to education to inmates,” officials said.

The Prison Department assisted inmates with filling examination forms, supplied books and study materials, and conducted subject-wise classes inside prison facilities. The Board also arranged examination centres within jail premises, addressing logistical challenges for candidates and allowing them to appear for the examinations within a familiar environment.

One inmate said he lost hope after being sentenced, but support from the Radio Prison service, welfare officers and jail officials encouraged him to resume his studies. “After being sentenced, I felt my life had come to an end. Today, after succeeding in the examination, I feel alive again after many years,” he said in a statement released by the State government.

Another inmate said financial problems had forced him to leave school earlier, while imprisonment led to depression. He said counselling provided by prison staff helped him continue his education. A third inmate, who cleared Class 12, said he plans to pursue music after his release. “Despite being in prison, my dreams are still alive. I attend music classes twice a week and aspire to become a singer after my release,” he said.

The prison administration has set up libraries with books and audiobooks and organises lectures by school and college teachers, along with subject experts, inside prison campuses for inmates preparing for examinations.

“The programme is aimed at helping inmates continue their education and engage in regular activities. Inmates who had discontinued their studies at different stages are being given opportunities to resume learning with support from prison authorities,” officials said.

Congratulating the 44 inmates who cleared their examinations, Gujarat Director General of Police Dr K.L.N. Rao said the prison department would honour them with certificates. He also said support would be provided to the children of incarcerated parents.