The Ghana Prison Service is set for significant infrastructure expansion and capacity-building support as part of government efforts to strengthen the country’s correctional system, Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has announced.

Speaking at the graduation parade of Prison Officer Cadet Course Intake 32, the Vice President said the investments are aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, improving officer welfare, and safeguarding the dignity of persons in custody.

“We’re retooling the Ghana Prison Service to improve operational efficiency, the welfare of officers, and the dignity of those in custody,” she stated.

Prof Opoku-Agyemang revealed that the reforms go beyond infrastructure upgrades, noting that programmes are being developed to boost production capabilities within the service.

These initiatives will enable large-scale manufacturing of textiles, furniture, sanitary products, and construction materials, with the goal of creating jobs and expanding revenue sources locally and internationally.

The Vice President also praised President John Dramani Mahama’s recent granting of amnesty to 998 inmates, describing the gesture as “a powerful statement of mercy” and a reaffirmation that justice must be accompanied by compassion and opportunities for rehabilitation.

“The amnesty forms part of our broader efforts to decongest facilities, enhance humane conditions, and uphold the spirit of the correctional system,” she added.

Cadet Course Intake 32 consists of 265 officer cadets—162 males and 103 females—reflecting the service’s commitment to gender balance and merit-based recruitment.

The three-phase training, which commenced on 27th December 2024 at the Ankaful Training Centre, is designed to produce disciplined and service-oriented correctional officers.

Prof Opoku-Agyemang concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustained investment in the service: “The Ghana Prison Service will continue to benefit from infrastructure and capacity-building support to empower the institution to fully deliver on its constitutional mandates.”