In a powerful testament to the transformative power of education behind bars, the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), in partnership with the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) and Stand Up for Jamaica, hosted a landmark graduation ceremony on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, honouring ten (10) inmates who earned tertiary degrees in Business Administration while incarcerated.

Held at the DCS Recruitment and Training Centre in Kingston, the ceremony marked a pivotal moment in Jamaica’s rehabilitation efforts, demonstrating that with opportunity, support, and determination, true change is possible.

Five inmates were awarded Associate of Science degrees, while five others received their Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration. The academic excellence of the graduates was undeniable:

• One (1) achieved the highest academic distinction of Summa Cum Laude (GPA 3.80 – 4.00)
• Four (4) earned the second highest academic honour of Magna Cum Laude (GPA 3.60 – 3.79)
• Five (5) received Cum Laude (GPA 3.40 – 3.59)

This groundbreaking achievement is the result of a partnership formalised by a Memorandum of Understanding signed in January 2020 and renewed in February 2022. The initiative which started at the St. Catherine District Adult Correctional Centre has since expanded to include South Camp and Tower Street Adult Correctional Centres.

In his remarks, Commissioner of Corrections, Brigadier (Ret’d) Radgh Mason, reflecting on the magnitude of the achievement, said:

“To our graduates today, you are proof that the past does not have to define the future. You have worked hard, overcome challenges, and stayed the course. Your achievements are a testament to your resilience, determination, and courage. May this milestone inspire you to keep going, to dream bigger, and to serve as a beacon of hope for others walking the same road.”

One graduate, serving a life sentence, delivered an emotionally charged valedictory address:

“Behind every achievement today is a story of struggle, strength, and survival. We didn’t just earn degrees—we reclaimed our dignity. I stand before you, not merely as an inmate serving a life sentence, but as a man who dared to dream where dreams often go to die… We don’t want this to be a final chapter. We want it to be a launchpad. Give us the opportunity to contribute. Give us the chance to pursue master’s degrees—not because we beg for sympathy, but because we’ve proven we can thrive when given support. We’ve done the work; we’ve paid the price. Now let us help build the society we once helped to break.”

The programme was designed not only to provide academic qualifications but to foster personal growth, discipline, and a renewed sense of purpose. Through their commitment, the graduates have shown that the walls of a correctional facility do not define their potential or limit their future.

One graduate reflected on the life-changing journey:

“I feel elated. I feel proud of myself. I feel proud of the university to actually fulfill their tagline—fostering leadership through innovation. It was a very innovative program… I had no CXCs before incarceration. I started a small business knowing nothing. Now I have eight subjects and a bachelor’s degree. It is a godsend… I’m looking forward to reintegrating, continuing my business in solar energy, and creating opportunities for others—especially ex-inmates—because I know corporate Jamaica doesn’t run down to hire ex-convicts.”

The initiative’s ripple effect is already being felt among families and communities. Said one relative of a graduate:

“I’m feeling proud of this moment because to know that someone is incarcerated and they’re graduating from college… Even though she went there for a reason, at least she didn’t waste her time. We’re looking forward to her coming out. The family is here behind her 100%.”

Hon. Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn, Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security, also delivered a stirring charge to the graduates:

“Do not stop at this finish line. Set your sights on the next race. Pursue further studies, start businesses, mentor others—and keep showing Jamaica that your past does not dictate your future.”

As the ceremony concluded, one truth echoed powerfully throughout the room: education remains one of the most effective tools for rehabilitation. The DCS, UCC, and Stand Up for Jamaica remain committed to expanding access to education as a cornerstone of reintegration, helping inmates build meaningful, productive lives after release.

“As we look ahead,” the Commissioner concluded, “let us remember that rehabilitation is a collective responsibility. Together, through education, skill-building, and opportunity, we can turn second chances into lasting change.”