Abu Dhabi: Prisoners in Abu Dhabi jails will have a chance to enrol in distance learning programmes of various educational institutions thanks to a directive of Maj Gen Mohammad Khalfan Al Rumaithi, general commander of Abu Dhabi Police.
Maj Gen Al Rumaithi directed the introduction of the distance learning initiative for prisoners at detention and correctional facilities in collaboration with several universities in the UAE, such as Hamdan Bin Mohammad University and the Higher Colleges of Technology.
Online university learning offers various disciplines for bachelors and masters degree programmes.
Maj Gen Al Rumaithi said that the aim of the initiative is to fulfil the objective of rehabilitating prisoners, reforming their behaviour and giving them their right of pursuing academic studies, enabling them to find a job upon release from prison.
He pointed out that this initiative is the first of its kind in the Middle East and that the UAE is keen on developing the individuals’ capabilities and values.
Maj Gen Maktoum Ali Al Sharifi, acting director-general of Abu Dhabi Police, said that Abu Dhabi Police area eager to rehabilitate prisoners by teaching them professional skills, enhancing their potential and enabling them to lead a normal life back in society.
Maj Gen Al Sharifi said that Abu Dhabi Police are working on developing creative and contemporary techniques, assisting in distance learning and aimed at educating prisoners’ societal values, ethics and behavioural skills.
He also added that prisoners can pursue their academic studies anywhere in the world after their release.
Brigadier Mohammad Saif Al Zaabi, director of penal and correctional institution at Abu Dhabi Police, said that the distance learning initiative has a positive impact on prisoners as they can attain their postgraduate degree.
He pointed out that designated lecture halls in jails are well-equipped with the latest facilities for academic purposes and that periodic visits by academic staff and supervisors are provided.
