An inmate who is on life imprisonment at the Awka Custodial Centre, Anambra state, Jude Onwuzulike, has secured a postgraduate degree from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
Onwuzulike was presented with a certificate as he bagged Post Graduate Diploma in Education on Friday, July 14, after being certified worthy in character and learning.
Responding, Onwuzulike, full of excitement, appreciated the Custodial Centre and NOUN for the opportunity,
“When I came here, I didn’t know such thing existed. I thought it was only in advanced countries that such exist. I came in here with only a certificate, but now I have three; and I’m ready to acquire another one before I go,” the inmate said.
“To my fellow inmates, I want you to see here as a stepping stone. It’s time to enrol, you can continue even if you’re discharged. You’ll never regret it,” he said.
Speaking during the certificate presentation, Director of NOUN, Awka Study Centre, Dr Scholastica Ezeribe, expressed delight at the inmate’s enthusiasm towards academic.
Ezeribe, represented by Dr Georgina Ogbonna, charged other inmates to utilise the free opportunity provided by the government to better their lots ahead of their freedom.