Prisoners’ children feted for academic performance

TAIF — The Taif branch of Tarahum, a national NGO for the welfare of prisoners and their families held an awards ceremony at Taif Prison to honor the children of prisoners who had received certificates of excellence and outstanding academic performance from their schools.

These students, despite the absence of their fathers and their difficult living conditions not only did well, but they managed to make it into the top percentile of their class. In attendance were the 30 proud fathers who are currently prisoners.  

The father of the young boy whose only wish as a graduation present was for his dad to be smoke and drug free announced in front of those present that he had repented, and vowed never return to smoking or drugs of any kind.

“I had never expected to hear those words from my son, which came as a shock to me, but they also opened my eyes. My son’s words opened the door to my repentance and they have increased my motivation and determination to rid myself of this unhealthy and horrible habit. I was pleased with my son’s frequent visits to me in prison ever since his summer holiday started, and I will keep my promise to him insha’allah,” said the misty-eyed father.

Another young boy stood up and addressed the prisoners saying, “We genuinely miss and love our fathers, and we will make you proud and we will keep your heads held up high.” 

The acting director of Taif Prison, Col. Ahmad Al-Shihri, and several administrators from Tarahum attended the ceremony to congratulate the fathers on their children’s success. 

“This celebration was essential to enable the imprisoned fathers to share in the happiness and success of their children and families. Events like this one are part of Tarahum’s mission, which is to nurture the strong bond between the prisoner and his family on the outside,” said Shady Al-Harthy, the director of the Taif branch of Tarahum. — SG