The Sierra Leone Correctional Service is strengthening its rehabilitation and reintegration programmes through education, vocational training and partnerships with higher learning institutions, as part of efforts to ensure that inmates are better prepared to return to society as productive and responsible citizens.
The Director General of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, Joseph J. Senessie, gave the update during the Government of Sierra Leone’s Weekly Press Conference held on Tuesday, 1st September 2026, at the Miatta Civic Centre.
Mr. Senessie explained that the transformation from the former prison system to a correctional service in 2014 represented a significant shift towards a system that places greater emphasis on custody, rehabilitation and reintegration. He noted that while the Service has the responsibility to protect society and maintain safe, secure and humane correctional environments, it also has a duty to help inmates address the factors that contributed to their offending and prepare them for responsible lives after their release.
A key area highlighted by the Director General was the growing importance of education within correctional facilities. Among the institutions specifically mentioned was the University of Sierra Leone, as well as the University of Makeni, with discussions centred on how such partnerships could provide opportunities for inmates to pursue formal education and obtain recognised academic qualifications while serving their sentences.
Mr. Senessie emphasised that the university discussions are particularly important because some individuals may spend many years in correctional custody. He noted that persons who remain in custody for extended periods should not be deprived of opportunities to learn, develop their abilities and acquire qualifications that can improve their prospects after release.
The Director General further stressed that academic education must be complemented by practical skills development.