Acronis Cyber Foundation is pleased to announce the opening of a newly refurbished computer classroom at Jamiyah Halfway House (Darul Islah) on 21 February 2022. The refurbished computer classroom is part of the IT Skills Programme for ex-offenders, an initiative between Jamiyah Halfway House, Yellow Ribbon Fund (YRF) and Acronis.

Acronis had sponsored S$100,000 through the Yellow Ribbon Fund to the project – S$50,000 for the renovation and upgrading of the computer classroom, including 15 new laptops and other equipment. The remaining S$50,000 will be used for WSQ ICDL certification training courses in 2022.

The opening was graced by Guest of Honour Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development.

Alex (not his real name), resident of Darul Islah, who was one of 16 participants in the first IT training course held in the new computer classroom reflected on his experience

I feel encouraged to learn new things. Previously I worked in odd jobs, without requiring any IT skills. When I study new IT skills with the help of the Jamiyah Halfway House’s staff and the trainers, it makes me motivated to change my life for the better.

I think this course will help me in the future. The trainer who taught us has a lot of experience. He was patient and calm when teaching us, which makes it easier to understand.

In his closing remarks, Assoc Prof Faishal said:

Employability has always been a huge hurdle for ex-offenders. Jobs that provide financial stability will help ex-offenders rebuild their lives. Given how technology has become part of our daily lives, being computer literate will open doors of opportunities for both our offenders and ex-offenders.

I’m glad that the Yellow Ribbon Fund, Acronis, and Jamiyah Halfway House have realised their shared vision to develop a classroom classroom that can support regular IT training for residents of the Halfway House. The computer classroom will enable the residents to upgrade their IT knowledge and skills, build their confidence in this field, and consequently improve their employability upon their release.

This project is a testament to how we can work together towards a common cause. With the newly upgraded computer classroom and better equipment, we hope Jamiyah Halfway House will continue to provide the residents with the much-needed training and support essential for their successful rehabilitation and reintegration journey.