Forty-two inmates of Mile II State Central Prison on Wednesday bagged certificates after undergoing vocational training for six months.
The inmates acquired skills in electrical installation, plumbing, tailoring and information technology. The entrepreneurial training was provided by Insight Training Institute.
Speaking at the graduation at the ceremony held at the premises of Mile Two prison, the director general of the Gambia Prison Service disclosed that the vocational training was part of efforts aimed at reforming the prisoners.
Ansumana Manneh said: “This [milestone] cannot be fulfilled without the advent of institutions and partners to help in this reformation processes in skills training as a tool to help inmates to become assets in their communities upon their release.”
According to the Prison boss, the government of President Adama Barrow was committed to the respect and observance of international best practices with regard to prison.
“Correction centres are meant to be a drive to reform individuals who have committed wrongs either by purpose or circumstance,” he said.
Mr Manneh also said that respect for the rule of law, ending inhumane treatment of inmates with impunity, free, fair and speedy trial for effective justice are some of the key priorities of his institution.