Abolongo Correctional Service Centre Visits ACU, Seeks Stronger Partnership

The leadership of the Correctional Service Centre, Abolongo, Oyo, has paid a courtesy visit to Ajayi Crowther University (ACU) to strengthen the existing relationship between the Centre and the University and explore areas of possible collaboration.

Speaking during the visit, the Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), Adebayo Okunola, expressed delight at being at the University and appreciated the institution for reaching out to inmates through book donations and other forms of educational support in the past.

He explained that the visit was aimed at sustaining a fraternal relationship between the Correctional Service Centre and the University, while emphasising the Centre’s responsibility to reform, rehabilitate and equip inmates for productive reintegration into society.

According to him, some inmates are currently preparing to sit for the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE), while those with interests and abilities in vocational skills are being trained to acquire useful skills.

He noted that educational and vocational programmes remain important in helping inmates develop themselves and prepare for life beyond the correctional facility.

In her response, the Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, appreciated the leadership of the Correctional Service Centre and the team for the visit, expressing the University’s readiness to explore meaningful areas of collaboration.

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the University was making plans to introduce programmes in Criminology and Psychology, noting that such programmes could provide opportunities for stronger academic engagement with the Correctional Service Centre.

She reaffirmed the University’s commitment to maintaining zero tolerance for social vices and promoting values that contribute to producing responsible and morally upright members of society.

Prof. Oduwole further stated that the University Management would engage with the Correctional Service Centre to identify areas where both institutions could work together for the benefit of students and inmates.

She added that the University’s interaction with the Centre would provide students with opportunities to gain practical knowledge and experience beyond theoretical classroom learning.

The Vice-Chancellor expressed optimism about the partnership, stating that the University would join hands with the Correctional Service Centre to extend its vision of “Raising Godly Intellectuals” to inmates.