Inmates offered chance to gain bachelor degrees

For the first time in Georgia’s history inmates serving in correctional facilities could be given the chance to get a tertiary degree.

Corrections Minister Kakha Kakhishvili announced this initiative today while presenting a report on reforms recently implemented by the Ministry.

The Government of Georgia has developed a legislative package allowing special education benefits for low-risk prisoners or for inmates close to being released.

The country’s Ministry of Corrections drafted legislation amendments and collaborated with the Ministry of Education to offer higher education opportunities for these prisoners. The amendments will allow these group of inmates to earn a bachelor’s degree.

Today Corrections Minister Kakha Kakhishvili presented a report on reforms recently implemented by the Ministry. Photo by Georgia's Ministry of Corrections. 

The education package was initiated for future implementation, pending approval from Parliament.

Already various educational programs are available for inmates serving time in Georgia’s prisons. These short-term trainings were diverse and helped inmates with their eventual rehabilitation back into society.

More than 1,060 prisoners are currently involved in educational programs in Georgian prisons, according to the Corrections Ministry.