INFLUENCE OF LIBRARY AND VOCATIONAL RESOURCES ON REFORMATION AND REHABILITATION OF INMATES AT MEDIUM SECURITY CUSTODIAL CENTRE, KUJE

Abstract

The study assessed Library and Vocational Resources as Factors Influencing Inmates Reformation and Rehabilitation in Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje. The study was guided by three objectives and three corresponding research questions. Survey research design method was adopted for the study. The total population of the study was seven hundred and twenty-two (722). The sample size of the study was three hundred and seventyfive (375) respondents. Purposive sampling and Stratified sampling technique were used to determine the sample size for the study. Questionnaire was used as instrument for data collection. Out of the three hundred and seventy-five (375) copies of questionnaire administered, one hundred and twelve (112) copies were filled, returned and used for the analysis. Descriptive statistical tool involving frequency counts and percentages, were used to analyse the data. The findings of the study revealed that books provide hope to inmates for future plan after jail. Reading books has promoted inmates’ health and legal issues, Vocational training has fostered personal growth and a sense of accomplishment among inmates, and Vocational programmes has improved inmates' literacy and numeracy skills were among the effects that have the highest percentages above the average benchmark. The study also revealed that inadequate funding, space and accommodation problem for resources, physical restriction, and inadequate collection/resources were among the major issues faced by custodial centre. The study, therefore, recommends that rehabilitation and creation of more library and vocational facilities; adequate funding should be encouraged"; both library and vocational resources should be adequately preserved and managed; and custodial centres should liaise with other professional bodies to promote library and vocational resources.