Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Harvesters Africa Empowerment Foundation (HAEF) has launched a nationwide Back-to-School Initiative designed to support inmates and underserved children through education and vocational rehabilitation.
The programme is being carried out in partnership with the Sohcahtoa Foundation, Saturn Home Appliance, and the Centre for Legal Support and Inmate Rehabilitation (CELSIR).
According to a statement issued on Friday, the initiative extends assistance to communities, schools and correctional centres, including the Ikoyi Correctional Centre where the “Empower to Rebuild” project is enabling inmates to acquire certified vocational skills.
“Because Harvesters cares, this partnership created a pathway for inmates to gain skills and hope for a second chance at life,” the statement read. Through CELSIR, HAEF facilitated the issuance of official trade competence cards from the Lagos State Ministry of Labour, allowing participating inmates to work legally upon release.
As part of the rehabilitation programme, inmates produced three-seater classroom desks, providing furniture for 300 pupils.
The foundation described the project as a symbol of dignity restored, benefitting both the makers and recipients.
Additionally, at Hope for the Slum School in Makoko, the programme delivered 150 school uniforms, 42 three-seater desks (seating 126 pupils), 750 exercise books, and undertook sand-filling of the access road leading to the school.
Organisers say the initiative aims to break cycles of marginalisation, reduce re-offending and expand educational access among vulnerable children.
“Our focus is restoration — rebuilding lives, opportunities, and communities,” HAEF added.
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Chukwu Obinna 
