The Directorate of Prisons in Makkah in cooperation with the Community College in Umm Al Qura University (UQU) held a ceremony to celebrate graduation of twelve inmates from the advanced affiliation program in various fields of study. The graduation ceremony was held at the directorate headquarters in Makkah.

It was attended by Head of the Directorate Colonel Saleh Al-Qahtani, Vice-dean of the College Dr. Salem Al-Otaibi, Supverisor of the Affiliation Program Dr. Mohamed Zamzami, Vice-dean for the Social Sciences Dr. Khaled Al Sharif alongside a number of officials from the prison directorate.

After listening to few verses of the Holy Quran, the event started with a presentation on the graduates' lives. On the occasion, Al-Qahtani addressed the attendees. He congratulated the graduates, saying their education reflects support and keenness of General Director of Prisons General Ibrahim Al- Hamzi and the Rehabilitation Department.

He added the inmate education is one of the most important steps taken by the directorate as part of the rehabilitation program. About 210 inmates participate in the UQU educational affiliation program, he said, adding about 67 persons of this number have enrolled this year.

The Colonel hailed efforts exerted by Umm Al Qura University and the Community College. He extended thanks to people who took part in the achievement.

In the same context, Dean of the College Dr. Khaled Barqawi said the university, represented by the college and under directives of UQU President Dr. Bakri Assas, is keen on rehabilitating this group of people and endeavors to achieve the goals of the university.

This year, the university accepted applications from 67 inmates, he said, adding the number of inmates increased to 210 from Makkah. He wished more success to the graduates to serve their homeland and be role models for other prisoners. He praised the Directorate of Prisoners in Makkah for cooperation with the college to reach results of the program. Also, he thanked Dr. Assas for supporting all educational and academic programs.

The Community College manages a number of educational programs, training courses and workshops to meet its community services goals.

The ceremony closed activities after Colonel Qahtani honored the graduate inmates alongside the departments who contributed to success of the educational program.