In recent years, the prison population in Argentina has been steadily increasing, reaching a record high of 105,053 people in 2022. This surge in numbers has led to overcrowding in prisons across the country, resulting in poor living conditions for many inmates. Basic necessities such as sanitary supplies, healthcare services, and even beds are often lacking, making life behind bars even more challenging.
With such difficult circumstances, it is not surprising that access to higher education for imprisoned individuals is limited. As of 2022, only a small percentage of incarcerated men and women in Argentina reported participating in university-level education programmes. The majority of inmates did not have the opportunity to engage in any educational enrichment at all.
However, amidst these challenges, there are individuals like Cubilla who saw an opportunity to make a difference. Cubilla, along with other inmates at the San Martin prison, took the initiative to organize CUSAM, an in-prison university aimed at providing educational opportunities to their fellow prisoners. This initiative not only aimed to improve the lives of those behind bars but also to foster better relations among inmates and reduce violence within the prison.
The National University of San Martin played a crucial role in helping to establish CUSAM, offering degrees in sociology and social work to the incarcerated students. By focusing on subjects that teach critical thinking and conflict resolution, the university aimed to empower the students to become responsible citizens and approach challenges in a different way.
Research has shown that education plays a significant role in reducing the risk of recidivism among formerly incarcerated individuals. Studies from institutions like the University of Buenos Aires and the Bard Prison Initiative in the United States have demonstrated that individuals who participate in prison education programmes are far less likely to reoffend after their release. In fact, earning a bachelor’s degree while in prison can significantly lower the recidivism rate, offering a new lease on life for those who take advantage of educational opportunities.
Jessica Neptune, the director of national engagement at the Bard Prison Initiative, emphasizes the transformative power of education for incarcerated individuals. Not only does it decrease the likelihood of returning to prison, but it also opens up a world of possibilities and opportunities for personal growth and development.
In conclusion, while the challenges facing Argentina’s prison system are significant, initiatives like CUSAM demonstrate the positive impact that education can have on the lives of incarcerated individuals. By providing access to higher education and promoting critical thinking skills, these programmes not only benefit the students themselves but also contribute to a safer and more harmonious prison environment. Education truly has the power to change lives and break the cycle of recidivism, offering hope for a brighter future for those behind bars.