Udelar Recognizes Lack of In-Prison Study Options for Detainees

The University of the Republic (Udelar) in Uruguay has acknowledged significant shortcomings in its educational offerings for incarcerated individuals. A recent report presented to the Central Governing Council (CDC) found that many of Udelar's faculties lack clearly defined programs or study pathways for students deprived of liberty (EPL).

The report, compiled after a directive in December to survey available courses, highlighted that obtaining this information itself was a challenge. While the issue is not ignored, services struggle to provide conclusive details on educational opportunities for prisoners. The findings indicate that most courses cannot be started and completed within prison walls, and even those that can be initiated often present difficulties in progressing beyond the initial semesters.

Currently, the only program that can be fully completed by inmates is the Technical Degree in Administration offered by the Faculty of Economics and Administration (FCEA), which spans five semesters. While a degree in university management can be pursued, its completion is discouraged due to public sector hiring restrictions for individuals with a criminal record. Other faculties, such as Social Sciences and Information and Communication, allow for the initiation of certain degrees, but full completion within the prison system remains largely unfeasible.