A groundbreaking educational initiative is reshaping the lives of 27 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in Cebu, proving that incarceration is not the end of learning—but possibly, a new beginning.
The Cebu Technological University (CTU)-Danao Campus, in collaboration with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Region 7, has officially launched the Center for Innovation in Education Behind Bars (CIEBB), an extension program aimed at offering higher education to inmates from Cebu City and Danao City. This initiative marks the first of its kind in the Visayas region.
This program, as part of CTU-Danao’s skills training project SAKPI “sa” BJMP, offers a two-year Certificate of Technology major in Computer Technology.
Classes for the pilot batch began on March 17, with PDL students engaging in both academic coursework and hands-on training, all conducted within the confines of city jails.
Of the 30 available slots, 27 PDLs from Cebu City Male and Female Dormitories and Danao City Jail qualified for admission—22 men and five women.
They attend virtual classes via Zoom and submit assignments in designated depository areas. For examinations, CTU faculty conduct face-to-face assessments within jail facilities, working closely with jail personnel.
“Education is for all, regardless of circumstance,” said Dr. Denilin Batulan, CTU-Danao faculty regent and the project’s lead proponent.
Dr. Batulan explained that while the students are not yet covered by the government’s free tertiary education program, local jail management has stepped in to subsidize fees. She expressed optimism that the initiative will soon gain national support and be covered by the government’s free tertiary education program.
The seeds of this initiative were planted as early as 2016, when Dr. Batulan introduced skills training programs inside jail facilities. Through partnerships with TESDA, PDLs earned certifications in computer servicing, bread and pastry production, and welding, skills that have already helped many find employment or start businesses upon their release.
However, Dr. Batulan said it became clear over time that some inmates aspired to a program that would give them not just skills but a full degree.
BJMP-7 officials have welcomed the partnership, noting that such programs promote rehabilitation and reduce recidivism.
CHED Chairman Prospero de Vera III also lauded the project during a recent education summit in Davao City, encouraging other state universities to replicate such models to eventually secure budget support.
As classes continue, the CTU-Danao and BJMP team remains hopeful that this first batch of students—despite their orange uniforms and confined surroundings—will one day don graduation cap and gown and walk into new beginnings.