Learning Work Skills on the Outside: Opportunities for self-Development and Reintegration among Former Prisoners in Ghana

Abstract

This study focused on the training of two ex-offenders out of three who were employed by the Prison Ministry in Ghana. The instrumental case-study research design was used for this study and the sampling method used was the “unique case selection”. The researcher used in-depth interview which was individually focused as the instrument for data collection. The study revealed that the two former prisoners were tasked to do on-the-job training and it targeted the development of their cognitive skills. This is because their previous knowledge and skills had been eroded through long term of imprisonment. The findings of the study indicated that the trainees acquired knowledge about human-relations and work ethics. Additionally, they developed a sense of self-esteem and they were able to perform their social responsibilities. A further research should be conducted into the Prison Ministry’s role in repairing damaged relationships between former prisoners and their families in Ghana.