A lone test-taker: Vadodara jail transforms into an exam hall for one

As Gujarat’s Class X and XII board examinations commenced today, an unusual setting emerged at Vadodara Central Jail, where an entire exam centre was set up for a single candidate. Originally, five inmates were expected to appear, but only Sanjay Parmar turned up, sitting alone under the watchful eyes of three invigilators.

Efforts to educate inmates

Vadodara Central Jail has long encouraged academic opportunities for prisoners, aiming to help them reintegrate into mainstream society. However, this year’s low turnout raises questions about the reach and impact of such initiatives. Despite this setback, Gujarat has seen notable success in prison education. In May 2024, nine convicts serving life sentences at Surat’s Lajpore Jail cleared their Class XII board exams with a flawless pass percentage.

Rising participation over the years

• 2016: 134 inmates attempted board exams.
• 2017: The number climbed to 155.
• 2018: Participation peaked at 183, with 155 appearing for Class X and 28 for Class XII.

Gaps in prison education

Although these efforts continue, a wider issue looms. Nationwide, as of 2019, fewer than 22% of prisoners had access to formal education, and only 12% received vocational training. Strengthening learning programs behind bars could significantly improve rehabilitation efforts and lower reoffending rates.

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