The Youth Employment Agency (YEA), in partnership with the Ghana Prisons Service, has held a colourful pass-out ceremony for the maiden batch of Prison Service Assistants under its security module. 

The event, which took place at the Prison Service Training School in Ankaful in the Central Region, marked a historic milestone in the government’s efforts to create jobs for the youth while strengthening national security. 

In all, 890 young men and women of the 5000 to be trained, successfully completed three weeks of intensive training in prison operations, security drills, human rights, discipline, and crisis management.  

The trainees were recruited by YEA and attached to the Ghana Prisons Service to support ongoing reforms and boost manpower within the Service. 

They are to assist in correctional activities at the various Prisons centres across the country and the remaining Prisons Service Assistants will pass out in the coming weeks in batches. 

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of YEA, Malik Basintale, commended the graduates for their resilience and commitment throughout the training period. 

He noted that the initiative was not only to provide employment opportunities for the youth but also to contribute significantly to national development. 

“Through this partnership, YEA is not only creating jobs but also empowering the Ghana Prisons Service with the needed manpower to deliver on its mandate of safe custody, rehabilitation, and reformation of inmates,” he stated. 

Mr Basintale mentioned that the new recruits would help address challenges of understaffing in the Service.  

The YEA CEO charged the graduates to uphold discipline, integrity, and professionalism in their line of duty to make the President and Ghana proud. 

Mr Lawrence Ozor Lamptey from the Greater Accra Region was adjudged the overall best Prisons Service Assistant. 

Speaking on behalf of the group, he expressed gratitude to the YEA and the Ghana Prisons Service for the opportunity and assured of their readiness to serve the country with dedication and contribute to the transformation of the Prisons Service. 

The ceremony attracted dignitaries from government, security agencies, and families of the graduates, who witnessed demonstrations in drills, parade, and security manoeuvres by the newly passed-out officers. 

It was graced by chiefs, security officers and some dignitaries in the Central Region. 

The YEA-Prisons Service initiative is part of the government’s broader youth employment drive, which also covers modules in community policing, health assistance, and other essential services.