Kumasi's Manhyia Local Prison witnesses a landmark moment as nine inmates receive scholarships for virtual Bachelor's degrees from Jackson University College, underscoring local efforts in prisoner education."

 

Kumasi, Ashanti Region, Ghana – In a significant step towards prisoner rehabilitation and reintegration, nine inmates from the Manhyia Local Prison have been awarded scholarships to pursue a Bachelor's degree at Jackson University College in Kumasi. This pioneering initiative will allow these individuals to participate in university classes through a virtual format, bringing higher education directly into the correctional facility.

The scholarships, provided by Jackson University College, represent a beacon of hope for the recipients, offering them a chance to gain valuable academic qualifications that can significantly improve their prospects upon release. The program aims to equip inmates with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful reintegration into society, addressing the root causes of recidivism and fostering personal growth.

The inmates, whose ages range from 26 to 39, are currently in their second year of a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) program, majoring in Basic Education for Upper Primary. They attend virtual lectures during weekends, demonstrating remarkable dedication to their studies despite the challenges of their environment.

This collaboration between Jackson University College and the Manhyia Local Prison, which commenced in 2023, aligns with the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Nelson Mandela Rules) and Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education). It underscores a growing recognition that prisons should not merely be places of confinement but also centers for reformation and rehabilitation.

While the program offers immense opportunities, challenges remain. Inmates face issues such as weak internet connectivity, inadequate learning materials, and limited space for classrooms within the prison yard. There are also calls for the government to implement measures allowing student inmates to participate in supported teaching experiences outside the prison, and to provide allowances for purchasing academic materials.

Despite these hurdles, the commitment shown by both the inmates and the institutions involved highlights a powerful belief in the transformative potential of education. This initiative at Manhyia Local Prison is proving successful, with plans already underway to extend a similar program to the Kumasi Central Prison in September 2025, starting with 10 inmates.

This development serves as a testament to the dedication of Jackson University College and the Ghana Prisons Service in fostering a more rehabilitative approach to incarceration, offering a pathway to a brighter future for those behind bars.