In a remarkable story of resilience and transformation, Joweria Kaweesi, an inmate at Luzira Women’s Prison, has defied the odds to become the only female prisoner to pass the 2024 Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations.
Her journey from a conviction for aggravated robbery to academic success is a testament to the power of determination and self-reinvention.
A Troubled Past: The Conviction
Joweria Kaweesi’s life took a drastic turn on February 21, 2016, when she and her co-accused, Orishaba Rachael and Luswata Joseph, were arrested in connection with the robbery of a motorcycle and the death of Kalema Charles.
According to court records, the group lured Kalema to Abuja Restaurant in Gaba, where he was drugged into unconsciousness before his motorcycle was stolen.
The case, tried before Hon. Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi, hinged on witness testimonies and forensic evidence.
Prosecution witnesses, including a police officer and restaurant staff, described how Kaweesi and her accomplices had spent hours drinking with the victim before he lost consciousness.
The court found that she had participated in the robbery, though murder charges were dismissed due to insufficient evidence linking her to the victim’s death.
On February 20, 2018, Kaweesi was convicted of aggravated robbery and sentenced to nine years in prison.
Turning Point: Embracing Education in Prison
Imprisoned at the age of 17, Kaweesi found herself at a crossroads. Instead of resigning to despair, she chose education as her path to redemption.
Luzira Women’s Prison offers an education program, and Kaweesi saw it as an opportunity to rebuild her future.
“I want to be a better person. I came to prison, but I don’t want to leave the same way I came,” Kaweesi shared in an interview. “It takes heart. You have to know what you’re looking for.”
Her educational journey began with the 2019 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), which she sat alongside four other inmates.
While some of her peers failed or dropped out along the way, Kaweesi pressed on.
She continued through secondary education, despite the immense challenges of balancing prison life and studies.
Struggles and Sacrifices
The path was not easy. Many of Kaweesi’s classmates abandoned their studies due to prison hardships.
“Two of my friends dropped out in Senior Two,” she recalled. “One said she had ulcers and needed to work inside the prison to earn money for better food. Another was constantly worried about her children and legal case. The stress was too much.”
Despite the emotional and financial struggles, Kaweesi remained steadfast. She credits the prison administration, including her officer-in-charge, Stella Salume, and educators like Madam Pedun and headmistress Jackie, for their unwavering support.
“Books are not easy, and in prison, adding education to your file is an even bigger challenge,” Kaweesi admitted. “But the prison service made sure I stayed in class.”
Her resilience meant adjusting to a strict routine. Mornings started early with prison duties before attending lessons.
The classroom environment was far from ideal, often lacking resources such as textbooks and stationery. Still, she adapted, sometimes borrowing materials from other inmates or relying on donations.
Breaking Barriers: The 2024 UCE Triumph
In 2024, after years of perseverance, Kaweesi sat for the UCE exams, determined to prove that her past did not define her future.
She registered for subjects including English, Chemistry, Physics, History, Christian Religious Education, and Geography.
When the results were released, she had scored four Cs, one A, and one D, qualifying her to join A-Level.
“I feel so happy, so different. I have confidence in myself now,” she said with joy. “I wanted to show people outside that even if I’m in prison, it’s not the end. Instead of feeling trapped, I made it an opportunity to add something to my life.”
Her accomplishment did not go unnoticed. Prison officials hailed her achievement as an inspiration for other inmates.
Mr. Gilbert Niwamanya, the head of schools at Luzira Prison, noted that out of 339 inmates enrolled in secondary education, only 27 were female, highlighting the gender disparity in prison education.
He emphasized the importance of encouraging more women to take up studies.
What Lies Ahead?
Despite her academic success, Kaweesi faces another hurdle—her prison term.
She had hoped to pursue Senior Five and Six outside of prison, pending an appeal.
However, on January 24, 2024, the court dismissed her appeal, reaffirming her nine-year sentence.
“I thought by the time the appeal came back, it would be positive so I could study from outside,” she shared. “My family was ready to pay my fees.”
Now, she must decide whether to continue her A-Level studies within the prison walls.
Luzira’s secondary school program offers A-Level education but is limited mainly to arts subjects, with few science options due to laboratory constraints.
Despite this setback, Kaweesi remains determined. She dreams of becoming an accountant, even though the only advanced course currently available in prison is Law.
She is now considering alternative study options, such as correspondence courses or seeking sponsorships to further her education remotely.
A Message to the Youth
Kaweesi’s journey is not just about personal redemption; it’s also a message to others.
“To the young people outside, work hard with your hands. The money you get through your effort and sweat is the best,” she advises. “Please stop crime. It’s not worth it.”
Her story stands as a powerful reminder that no matter one’s circumstances, education and resilience can pave the way to a better future.
Kaweesi’s triumph is proof that even behind prison bars, hope and transformation are possible.
Her journey highlights the need for expanded educational programs in correctional facilities, particularly for women.
Advocates for prison education argue that access to learning can significantly reduce recidivism and empower inmates with valuable skills for reintegration into society.
As she prepares for the next phase of her education, Kaweesi remains hopeful that her story will inspire others—both within and beyond the prison walls—to believe in the power of second chances.
