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The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sierra Leone has held high-level talks with the Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS) to advance plans for a pioneering Centre for Excellence aimed at rehabilitating inmates through skills training.
The proposed center will offer inmates training in digital literacy, crafts and design, creative arts, entrepreneurship, and life skills—preparing them for reintegration into society with improved economic opportunities.
During the meeting, UNDP Resident Representative Fredrick Ampiah emphasized the need for “quality skill acquisition” over mere numbers, proposing a sustainable earning scheme to help inmates leave prison with savings and a clear reintegration plan.
The meeting set the stage for a multi-stakeholder design workshop, bringing together the judiciary, police, and private sector to co-create an inclusive and sustainable training framework.
Also, prior to this, the United Nations Development Programme Accelerator Lab and Correctional Service team conducted a skills-needs assessment, identified potential workshop venues, and began developing a tailored training manual.
UNDP in Sierra Leone’s Resident Representative, Fredrick Ampiah, stressed the need to go beyond basic training. He proposed a sustainable inmate earning scheme, enabling inmates to leave prison not only with marketable skills but also savings and a plan to rebuild their lives.
“It’s not about numbers,” he said, “but the quality of skill acquisition.”
The Correctional Service leadership reaffirmed their strong commitment to making this vision a reality. Together, we are laying the foundation for hope, dignity, and transformation one skill at a time.
