Prison Coding Program Provides Skills, Training for Civilian Life

Simon Jacobson and Vicki Johnson. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)

(North Dakota Monitor) – Even though he may never get the opportunity to use his new web development and coding skills outside of the prison walls, one North Dakota inmate says he is grateful for the opportunity to learn and perhaps inspire others.

“Education is the most powerful weapon, which you can use to change the world,” Simon Jacobson said, quoting former South African President Nelson Mandela during his remarks to the other participants in a prison coding program. “I send my deepest respect, regards and gratitude to The Last Mile team as a whole for the life-changing impact that they are doing throughout our country.”

Jacobson was one of 10 prisoners who received coding and web development certificates during a ceremony at the North Dakota State Penitentiary.