The Rajiv Gandhi Foundation (IOC Chapter) is pioneering a new distance learning programme aimed at giving prisoners a second chance in getting good qualifications up to degree level so they can start afresh in life when they leave prison.

The distance education programme for prisoners will be introduced with the support of the Indira Gandhi Open University (IGNOU) in India in collaboration with the Seychelles Institute of Management (SIM) at Majoie. Members of the Foundation are to meet with representatives from different organisations concerned to finalise a framework for the implementation of the programme. 

Mr K.D. Pillay, the chairman of the Foundation, said similar programmes had been implemented with success in countries like Kenya and India.

Education of convicts, he said, was essential for their rehabilitation and re-integration in the society.

"Through education they have the chance to change their lifestyle, be more law-obedient and it will also give them a better opportunity to get decent jobs according to their qualifications as well as allow them to earn their living in a more respectful manner," Mr Pillay said.

The distance learning education programme is making available a number of courses at certificate, diploma and degree levels, depending on the basic qualifications and skills of the prisoners.

Courses being offered at certificate level include computing, nutrition and child care, food and nutrition, tourism, women empowerment and health and environment.

Those being offered at diploma level include tourism, nutrition and health, education and management and if they are serious enough prisoners can graduate with Bachelor degrees in Arts, Commerce and Accounts.

Degrees and diplomas given by IGNOU are recognised world wide and the institution has been conducting a distance education programme for Seychellois through SIM over the past seven years. 

Mr Pillay said that prisoners who have enrolled on the programme would still get the chance to complete their courses upon leaving prison.

He added that the Foundation would bear all the costs of the programme and the prisoners need not pay anything to enrol.

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