The Central Regional Prisons Command has partnered with Cape Coast Technical University to provide vocational and technical training for inmates as part of efforts to equip them with employable skills for life after prison.

The collaboration follows a strategic engagement between the leadership of the two institutions during a courtesy call by the Central Regional Prisons Commander, Deputy Director of Prisons Joseph Asabre, on the management of the university.

Under the initiative, inmates are expected to receive training in areas such as fashion design and garment production, welding and fabrication, culinary arts, biodigester engineering, digital and ICT skills, and graphic design.

Welcoming the Prisons Service delegation on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, the Dean of the School of Engineering, Professor Eric Awere, commended the initiative and assured the team of the university’s commitment to ensuring a successful partnership.

As part of the engagement, the Coordinator for Competency-Based Training at the university, Dr Gabriel Mwinkume, presented a concept note outlining the proposed areas of collaboration, while CSP Vincent Ziniel, Head of Business Development and Special Initiatives for the Ghana Prisons Service, highlighted areas requiring further review and refinement.

Professor Awere also disclosed that the university was working towards securing funding support for the programme, adding that a memorandum of understanding was being prepared to formalise the partnership.

In his remarks, Deputy Director of Prisons Joseph Asabre said the initiative would provide inmates with practical vocational skills backed by recognised certification, improving their chances of securing employment and contributing positively to society after their release.

Officials from both institutions say the partnership forms part of broader rehabilitation and reintegration efforts aimed at reducing recidivism and empowering inmates through education and skills development.