Mandya: As part of the ‘Change Through Learning’ literacy programme, 40 inmates from Mandya District Jail appeared for a literacy examination held inside the prison on Sunday.The initiative, aimed at transforming lives through education, was overseen by ZP CEO KR Nandini. The participating inmates — 37 men and 3 women — were receiving basic literacy training for the past year. These prisoners, once illiterate, are now learning to read and write through regular classes conducted within the jail.Nandini stressed the need to build awareness among inmates about the power of education. She also emphasised the importance of providing skill development training, enabling prisoners to return to society with dignity and employable skills after their release. During her visit, she inspected facilities provided for women inmates, including barracks, workshops, library, drinking water, sanitation, and other essential amenities.One elderly inmate shared his journey with the CEO, saying, “At first, I wondered why I should hold a pen at my age, which should have been for my children or grandchildren, but teacher Shivalingaiah explained why learning is important. Now I can recognise letters and read a little.”Many inmates expressed their gratitude and said they plan to request the education department to honour their teacher, Shivalingaiah, on Teacher’s Day (September 5) for his dedicated work.Shivalingaiah, who leads the programme, has so far helped 126 inmates gain basic literacy. Despite facing initial scepticism from colleagues for teaching prisoners, he persisted, driven by the belief that everyone deserves a second chance.Jail superintendent TK Lokesh explained that inmates study two hours daily, following the ‘Light for Life’ curriculum that includes reading, writing, arithmetic, and general knowledge. Study materials are provided to aid their learning. Vocational training is also offered in mushroom farming, cooking, plumbing, and motor repairs, based on the inmates’ interests.“Our library has over 18,000 books and subscribes to 13 daily newspapers, five weeklies, and monthly magazines. Facilities like tables, chairs, and fans ensure a comfortable reading environment,” Lokesh added.The answer sheets from Sunday’s exam will be evaluated by the block education office (South Zone), Mandya. Inmates who pass will receive ‘neo-literate certificates’ recognising their achievement.
