Prisoners in the Philippines are being given computer classes in an effort to provide them with the skills to turn away from crime and enter the workforce at the end of their sentences.
Inmates undergo training in basic computer literacy for at least three hours a day under a two-month government-sponsored scholarship programme, after which they receive a certificate of completion.
"This is really a big help to them because most of them do not have any background on computers or have not finished their studies," Maria Irene Esquinas, superintendent of Taguig City Jail in Metro Manila, told Channel News Asia.
“Teresa”, a 44-year-old mother of three imprisoned on drugs charges, told Channel News Asia that being able to study while in jail has given her hope.
"I will change my ways and turn into a new person. I won't go back to my old ways anymore after this,” she said.
"With the certificate that will be given to us after graduating this course, it will help me find a decent job even after being in jail."
The government has future plans to teach prisoners the IT and communications skills necessary to work in the Philippines’ burgeoning call centre industry.