Forty-four inmates lodged in prisons across Gujarat have passed the Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations conducted by the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSEB) in 2025, underlining the measurable impact of the state's education-based rehabilitation programme. The results — 22 passes at the Class 10 level and 22 at Class 12 — were announced on 23 May by the state's Prison Department.

How the Programme Works

The Gujarat Prisons and Correctional Administration supported inmates through the entire examination cycle — from application assistance and distribution of textbooks to arranging subject-wise classes inside jail premises. Examination centres were set up within correctional facilities so that inmates could sit for board exams in a regulated environment without facing logistical hurdles.

Regular academic sessions are conducted with teachers and subject experts from schools and colleges who visit prisons to guide students. Libraries stocked with books and audio learning material have also been introduced across facilities, intended to help inmates build study habits and develop positive coping mechanisms.

What Officials Said

Director General of Police (DGP) K.L.N. Rao confirmed that successful inmates would be formally honoured with certificates by the Prison Department. He added that the administration is also working to support the children of prison inmates as part of broader welfare measures.

Officials noted that the state's Home Department, under Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, has backed initiatives aimed at expanding educational access and rehabilitation programmes in prisons across Gujarat.

Voices from Inside

Several inmates who cleared the examinations described education as a turning point during their incarceration. One inmate said, 'After being sentenced, I felt my life had come to an end. But the inspiration I received through Radio Prison, the welfare office, and jail officials motivated me to return to studies. Today, after succeeding in the examination, I feel alive again after many years.'

Another inmate, who had previously dropped out due to financial constraints, said that imprisonment initially triggered depression, but counselling and encouragement from prison staff helped him resume his studies and eventually pass. A third, who cleared Class 12, said, 'Despite being in prison, my dreams are still alive. I attend music classes twice a week and aspire to become a singer after my release.'

Beyond the Classroom

The rehabilitation effort extends beyond formal education. Radio Prison broadcasts and counselling sessions have been deployed to support inmates facing emotional or psychological challenges. Vocational and creative programmes — including music classes and skill development sessions — are being introduced in select prisons alongside academic support.

With 44 inmates now holding fresh board qualifications, Gujarat's correctional system is building a template that other states may look to replicate as India's prison reform conversation gains momentum.