Deputy Director of Prisons and Officer-in-Charge of Manhyia Local Prison, Hannah Hilda Ewoame, has highlighted the importance of education in the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates, as nine prisoners pursue a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) programme through virtual learning.
“Time is an essential commodity in prison. It’s important that inmates engage in productive activities that will benefit them in the future,” Ewoame said during a visit covered by the Ghana News Agency (GNA).
The nine student-inmates, aged between 26 and 39, are currently in their second year, majoring in Basic Education for Upper Primary.
They attend virtual weekend lectures under scholarships from Jackson University College. However, their studies are challenged by poor internet connectivity and a lack of adequate learning resources within the prison facility.
Ewoame stressed the prison service’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities beyond tertiary level.
“Currently, we only have virtual tertiary education in the prison. We are looking forward to establishing Junior High School (JHS) and Senior High School (SHS) as well,” she added.
The scholarship programme is part of efforts to reform inmates and give them a second chance at life after incarceration.
One of the beneficiaries, who has spent eight years across two correctional facilities, shared how the initiative has changed his outlook on life.
“I don’t want my time here to be wasted. I believe I’m making the right choice. If I’m discharged in the next two years, I am willing to teach in any government school,” he said.
