By Sering Mass Jallow
The Mile II Central Prison, in partnership with the Insight Training Centre, has graduated 48 inmates and two prison officers after completing vocational training programmes in various skills areas.
The graduates underwent intensive training in plumbing, solar and electrical installation, construction, satellite installation and tailoring, among others.
The ceremony, held at the prison facility in Jeshwang along the Banjul Highway, also marked the inauguration of a newly constructed six-storey building aimed at enhancing training capacity and strengthening rehabilitation efforts.
The initiative forms part of the Gambia Prisons Service’s broader strategy to build institutional capacity and promote rehabilitation, in line with its mandate to transform correctional facilities into centres of reform and opportunity.
The event brought together government officials and development partners, underscoring the importance of rehabilitation, reintegration and second chances for inmates.
Director General of the Gambia Prisons Service, Ansumana Manneh, said the programme reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional reforms and support the wider security sector reform agenda.
“This event marks a milestone in our collective journey towards strengthening institutional capacity and advancing rehabilitation within the prison system,” he said, describing the new classrooms as symbols of hope, opportunity and renewal.
Director General of the Insight Training Centre, Ismaila Ceesay, said the institution remains committed to providing accessible and affordable skills training, particularly for young people and vulnerable groups.
He noted that the graduation demonstrates that skills development can be delivered effectively even within correctional settings, helping inmates acquire competencies needed for reintegration into society.
Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Professor Pierre Gomez, commended the initiative, noting its alignment with the government’s technical and vocational education and training (TVET) agenda.
He said the programme enhances inmates’ skills, supports personal development and improves their chances of successful reintegration after release.