Incarceration is often seen as a bleak outcome, but for one 29-year-old inmate, it was the wake-up call he needed to turn his life around. Jake, not his real name, is currently serving his fourth jail sentence for drug-related offenses, and has decided to enroll himself in Prison School to improve his chances of reintegrating into society after his release. Despite facing numerous obstacles such as drug withdrawal symptoms and limited access to the internet due to Covid-19 restrictions, Jake diligently studied and received his A-level results, scoring a C in H1 Mathematics. He is now working towards a degree in marketing, which will aid his return to the workforce as a former fitness instructor.

Jake’s motivation for enrolling in Prison School was to make his parents, especially his father, proud, and to avoid getting left behind in the workforce after such a long incarceration. His seven cellmates provided support and learned alongside him, and his Principles of Accounts teacher at Prison School, Tan Teck Khiang, provided him with much encouragement and helped him manage his expectations.

Prison School, located within the premises of Institution Tanah Merah 1, provides educational opportunities for inmates who wish to pursue higher education during their incarceration. This year, 16 candidates sat for the GCE A-Level examinations, and 10 candidates qualified to apply for further education or full-time local university courses. With higher educational qualifications, ex-offenders will have a better chance of finding employment and creating economic and social benefits for themselves and their families.

Source: Mothership