Marking a first for College Education Behind Bars at the Davao City Jail, thirty-two Persons Deprived of Liberty (DPL) graduated with a four-year bachelor’s degree or a senior high school diploma. The students in the higher education program denote the first to earn a four-year college degree, and thus a diploma, from the University of the Southeastern Philippines while incarcerated. This diploma allows the graduates to take a step toward freedom. Although the jail had an Alternative Learning System previously, the Thompson Christian School awarded the senior high school students their official diploma. These 32 men and women are a testament to the power of education and the positive influence of College Education Behind Bars at the Davao City Jail. Their success refutes the notion that offenders do not merit tertiary education and do not have the capacity to change, a view often perpetuated by media as it sensationalizes the darker side of humanity in confinement. Today we celebrate the bright side as a contrast to current crises. To both the public and to elected officials, this significant graduation conveys an important message that says the more opportunities DPL have to learn, value education, and seize possibilities, then the greater the chance they will break the cycle of imprisonment not just for themselves but for future generations to come. These individuals have shown great resilience and discipline by completing their college degree plan. Further, their commitment and adherence to rules and regulations define the best way to implement the Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) law for a reduction of sentences. Continue reading
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Dr. Aland Mizell is with the University of Mindanao School of Social Science, President of the MCI and a regular contributor to The Kurdistan Tribune, Kurdishaspect.com, Mindanao Times and Kurdish Media.You may email the author at:aland_mizell2@hotmail.com.Become a Member today!
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