Kumasi: Nine inmates of the Manhyia local prison in Kumasi have been awarded scholarships by Jackson University College to pursue a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) program through virtual learning. The undergraduate inmates, aged between 26 and 39, are in their second year and are majoring in Basic Education for Upper Primary.
According to Ghana News Agency, the students attend virtual lectures on weekends but face significant challenges, such as weak internet connectivity at the detention center and a lack of adequate learning materials. Deputy Director of Prisons, Hannah Hilda Ewoame, the Officer-In-Charge of the Manhyia Prisons, emphasized the importance of engaging inmates in activities that will be beneficial for their future reintegration into society. She remarked that prison should serve not only as a place of confinement but also as a center for reformation and rehabilitation, with formal education playing a crucial role in this process.
Madam Ewoame noted that many inmates were school dropouts who expressed interest in resuming their education. Currently, the prison only offers virtual tertiary education, but there are plans to establish Junior High School (JHS) and Senior High School (SHS) programs within the facility. To achieve this, she appealed to educationists and philanthropists for support in constructing a classroom structure within the prison premises.
One of the inmate students, who has spent eight years in prison, expressed his commitment to making productive use of his time by pursuing education. He shared the difficulties faced due to inadequate learning resources, such as the lack of sufficient chairs, desktops, and reliable internet service. Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic about teaching in a government school post-release.
He highlighted the need for practical teaching experience, which is currently restricted due to their inmate status. He urged the government to facilitate opportunities for them to participate in the Supported Teaching in School (STS) program, which is essential for applying theoretical knowledge in real classroom settings.
Furthermore, he requested the government to provide allowances for purchasing academic books online and other necessary materials. Improved network services were also sought from network providers to enhance their learning experience.
The Manhyia Local Prison currently houses 167 male inmates, who share six cells, underscoring the need for improved educational infrastructure and resources within the facility.