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493 new recruits have graduated from the Ghana Prisons Service, marking an important addition to the country’s human resources for correctional facilities. Deputy Minister of Interior, Naana Eyiah, emphasized the need for the implementation of modern technologies such as digital record-keeping systems, biometric identification, and security surveillance to enhance prisoner management and security.
The passing-out parade for Recruit Course 123 took place in Accra, with over 400 graduating officers who come from diverse professional and vocational backgrounds. The recruits include general-duty personnel and artisans, such as carpenters, masons, plumbers, and mechanics. Additionally, some have Diplomas and Higher National Diplomas in various fields, including education, nursing, agriculture, and secretarial duties.
The training journey for the course participants began in January 2023 at the Prison Officers Training School. It consisted of psychological preparation and general orientation crucial for their roles as Prison Officers. Subsequently, from January to August 2023, trainees gained practical experience through attachments to various prisons nationwide, marking the second phase of their training. This phase involved comprehensive classroom instructions, regimental drills, physical training, and operational activities.
For the final phase of their training, Recruit Course 123 returned to the Training School on September 1, 2023. During this period, they underwent classroom instruction and sat for final examinations covering topics such as penal statistics, reception duties, prison operations, interpersonal skills, penal law, and first aid. The recruits also received training in regimental and fire emergency drills, firearms handling, and counterterrorism awareness.
Deputy Minister of the Interior, Madam Naana Eyiah, emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the training and education of the Ghana Prisons Service personnel. She highlighted the importance of well-trained officers in maintaining a secure and civilized prison environment and urged the recruits to uphold discipline and professionalism in their duties.
Madam Naana Eyiah stated, “The Ghana Prisons Service as a state security agency is legally mandated to manage the prison system in the country. To discharge the mandate of the Prisons Service of ensuring safe custody and welfare of prisoners presents challenges, for which you should be vigilant and dedicated to your duties as Prisons Officers and act with utmost professionalism.”
She further advised the recruits to treat prisoners with care, respect, and decency, emphasizing that imprisonment itself is a form of punishment and that their role is not to further punish inmates. She encouraged them to focus on self-improvement and avoid acts of indiscipline to safeguard their careers.
The ceremony also recognized outstanding achievements among the recruits. FRO 97 Esther Larbi received the Academic Excellence award, RO. 229 Isaac Ahor Larbi was named the overall best recruit, and RO. 53 Frank Kyeremanteng received the Commandant’s award. RO. 92 Joel Ampadu Bosopem was honored as the best in drill, while RO. Bernard Botchway Yeboah was recognized as the best in physical training. After nine months of rigorous training, Recruit Course 123 is now promoted to the rank of second-class officers.
