Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has set up a special study centre at the Ballari Central Jail.
Anand Reddy, jail superintendent, told The Hindu that he had received a letter from the regional office of IGNOU and he had been appointed its coordinator.
According to him, 104 inmates have enrolled with IGNOU and completed their education so far. As many as 50 inmates enrolled this year. They are pursuing degree, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate courses, and are also doing special courses on Panchayati Raj, B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi. As many as 24 people have enrolled with Karnataka State Open University.
Examinations
Mr. Reddy said that examinations, which were earlier held at colleges in the city, would now be held on the jail premises from June.
Apart from conducting classes regularly, there was also a facility to offer a bridge course called Bachelor Preparatory Programme for undergraduates who intend to pursue higher studies, he said. The government was meeting the educational expenses of these inmates while they are in jail, and they are pursuing education on their own after being released.
In addition, the inmates are being encouraged to exhibit their talent in literature, cultural activities. Cultural events are being organised on nationally important days such as Republic day and Independence Day.
