Many inmates who are in remand would wish for a second chance at their dreams. As part of the government’s plan for the reintegration of inmates into society once released, inmates are encouraged to take part in either academic or vocational training.

31-year-old Amelia Liyabale did this fully. Currently held at Kakamega prison, Amelia scored the highest amongst her peers with a score of 402 marks. She desires to be a doctor someday.

She said, “The reason I did the exam, is to see how far I can go. Naeza jiskuma kiasi gani? (How much can I push myself?) Even though nimefungiwa ndani ya jela (I have been jailed).”

Having dropped out of class 8 in 2008, she says that she is calling on the government to upscale the library resources countrywide, to give the inmates a second chance at their academic path. She says “Being in jail does not mean you don’t have potential.”

Amelia will continue to pursue her studies through virtual classes.