Mandya Inmates Take Literacy Exam Under ‘Change through Learning’ Initiative

Quick Summary

• Under the ‘Change through Learning’ program,40 inmates from Mandya District Prison appeared for a literacy examination.
• the group includes 37 men and three women, many of whom volunteered to learn reading and writing over a year-long literacy training.
• The programme was overseen by Mandya Zilla Panchayat CEO K.R. Nandini,who emphasized education’s role in transforming lives and reintegrating prisoners into society with dignity.
• Elderly inmate shared personal experiences of initially doubting the benefits of learning but later finding motivation through teacher Shivalingaiah’s efforts.
• Shivalingaiah has taught 126 prisoners despite initial skepticism from colleagues; recognition for his contributions may be recommended on Teachers’ Day.
• Daily classes lasted two hours using the textbook “Light for Life,” focusing on reading, writing, basic arithmetic, and general knowledge. Exams will be evaluated by Mandya South Zone Block Education Office; successful candidates will receive ‘Neo-Literacy Certificates.’
• Additional vocational training programmes include mushroom cultivation, cooking, plumbing, motor repair; prison library holds over 18,000 books along with access to newspapers and magazines.

Indian Opinion analysis
This initiative underlines the crucial importance of educational rehabilitation in addressing cycles of crime and incarceration in India’s prison system while fostering self-worth among inmates through structured learning opportunities like literacy programmes and vocational training. Such reforms have broader social implications-they may pave the way for smoother post-incarceration reintegration into society by equipping individuals with essential skills beneficial both personally and professionally.

The inclusion of advanced library facilities alongside skill-building exercises further suggests a comprehensive approach toward creating rehabilitative environments within prisons that extend beyond punitive measures alone.

Teacher Shivalingaiah’s commendable contribution highlights how commitment can drive change even under challenging circumstances-his perseverance underscores how grassroot-level educators play transformative roles in sustaining impactful initiatives like these across communities.

Such programmes could serve as reproducible models nationwide to improve prisoner rehabilitation frameworks in India while addressing illiteracy as part of larger social equity goals.

Read more: Published – July 20, 2025 | IST