By: Mamajah Jalloh
The Director General of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, Joseph J. Senessie explored the growing importance of education for persons within correctional facilities as they interested in strengthening collaboration with universities and other educational institutions to create meaningful learning opportunities for persons in custody.
He made that during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education weekly press conference at Miatta Civic Centre, Youyi Building, Freetown on Tuesday 1st September, 2026.
Senessie stated that they have signed a partnership with the University of Sierra Leone and the University of Makeni on how those institutions could provide opportunities for eligible persons in custody to pursue formal education and obtain recognized academic qualifications while serving their sentences.
He emphasized that individuals who spend many years in custody should not be deprived of opportunities to learn, develop their abilities and acquire qualifications that could improve their prospects after release and the service was exploring ways to make education a more structured and meaningful component of rehabilitation and programmes that could led to recognized certificates.
The Director General mentioned that the Service wanted persons in custody to leave correctional facilities with practical skills that can help them establish livelihoods and become self-reliant, adding that vocational training can equip individuals to earn an income, support their families and contribute positively to their communities.
Senessie reaffirmed the Correctional Service’s commitment to the welfare, human rights and humane treatment of persons in custody.
He went on to say that the Service remained committed to respecting the fundamental rights of persons in custody while maintaining safe and secure conditions for both inmates and correctional officers.
The Director General revealed their engagement with human rights organizations, prison monitoring groups and advocates as part of efforts to strengthen transparency, accountability and oversight within correctional facilities.
Senessie highlighted the importance of electronic information management and the potential application of artificial intelligence and other digital tools to improve the management and accessibility of correctional records.
He disclosed that the Service was working towards modern systems that will make important information more accessible and consultants were expected to be engaged to support the development and improvement of these systems.