Nsawam Prisons Receives 20 Computers to Boost ICT Education

In a bid to uplift the underprivileged, the Ajet-Nasam family has donated 20 desktop computers to the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons in the Eastern Region.

This generous gesture aims to enhance Information and Communication Technology (ICT) education for both prison officers and inmates. The donation follows a similar appeal made by the prison authorities last year when the family donated educational materials, including books, to the prison.

Presenting the computers, Mr. John Ajet-Nasam expressed that the donation would empower inmates and officers alike to gain valuable computer skills.

“We are driven by the belief that the beauty of life is not just about how happy we are but how we can bring happiness to others. This contribution is a small token from my family to help transform lives within this institution,” Mr. Ajet-Nasam said.

He explained that the family’s motivation stems from their Christian faith and a desire to give back to society.

“This is not about having excess, but about love for humanity and gratitude to God for His guidance through life’s challenges,” he noted.

Assistant Director of Prisons, Patrick Thomas Seidu, who received the donation on behalf of the Ghana Prison Service, expressed deep appreciation.

He highlighted the positive impact the computers would have on educational programs at the prison, where formal education is offered up to the university level.

“We are extremely grateful for your support,” ADP Seidu said.

“These computers will be instrumental in helping inmates and officers acquire ICT skills, contributing to their reformation and reintegration into society.”

The Ajet-Nasam family’s act of generosity underscores the importance of rehabilitation through education, offering inmates a chance to acquire practical skills and rebuild their lives upon re-entering society.

Superintendent Paul Nuobepour, the officer in charge of education at Nsawam Medium Security Prison, shared the remarkable progress being made in the prison’s educational programs, particularly at the tertiary level.

He said the prison’s tertiary school, which operates under the University of Cape Coast (UCC), currently has 181 inmates enrolled in various programs ranging from level 100 to 400.

According to Superintendent Nuobepour, the first batch of tertiary students completed their studies last year, and they are awaiting their graduation.

“Out of the 54 who completed, we are confident that 47 will graduate, with some earning first-class honors. These are individuals who have genuinely worked hard,” he said.

The prison, he noted also boasts an ICT unit that trains inmates in computer proficiency, covering software, hardware, and Microsoft Office applications.

Currently, he said 81 inmates are undergoing training ICT program in addition to the tertiary program, the prison runs a recognized senior high school and a basic school, with about 70 inmates enrolled at the basic level.

Superintendent Nuobepour emphasized the need for more stakeholder support to fully develop the educational programs.

“The senior high school is recognized by the Ghana Education Service as a reformed institution. However, we need external support to expand, allowing civilian students to attend classes alongside inmates,” he said.

He said the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) recently inspected the prison’s library and recommended upgrades to meet university standards.

“We were advised to install air conditioning to elevate the library’s status. The commander is actively seeking partnerships to improve the facility. These new computers, along with those we received from the Malofa Foundation last year, will significantly enhance our resources,” Superintendent Nuobepour noted.

Superintendent Nuobepour also highlighted some of the ongoing challenges, including the need for exercise books and other educational materials, saying, “We’ve provided over 900 exercise books so far, but more are needed. “

He therefore called for continued support from stakeholders to help improve the prison’s educational programs and make a meaningful impact on the lives of the inmates.

Source:peacefmonline.com