ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (APP): Around 1,900 prisoners enrolled in literacy programmes at 48 prisons across Pakistan during 2023–25 as part of ongoing prison reform efforts.
Education supports rehabilitation
According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the literacy initiative plays an important role in prison reforms and focuses on rehabilitation and social reintegration of inmates.
The programme targets prisoners who cannot read or write. As a result, it helps them gain basic literacy skills needed for daily life. These skills also improve their chances of finding work after release.
Nationwide expansion planned
Meanwhile, authorities plan to launch the next phase of the literacy programme in all prisons in 2026. This expansion will make education a regular part of prison management across the country.
In addition, officials believe wider access to education will support long-term reform goals and help inmates adjust better after completing their sentences.
Drug rehabilitation alongside literacy
At the same time, prison authorities have set up drug rehabilitation centres in several prisons. These centres provide treatment and counselling to inmates facing drug addiction.
Through these services, officials aim to support recovery and help prisoners return to society as productive citizens.
Human rights remain central
Experts stress that prison reforms must align with human rights principles. Therefore, education and health-based programmes remain essential as they help reduce repeat offences and improve reintegration outcomes.