In a move aimed at changing lives, the Ghana Prisons Service has officially added rugby to its lineup of correctional and development activities. The new programme is designed to use the sport as a tool for positive change, benefiting both young people in custody and the officers who work with them.
The initiative, announced by the Ghana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), will introduce rugby as a structured activity based on the global “Sport for Development” model.
This approach uses sport not just for exercise, but as a way to teach valuable life lessons and help individuals successfully return to society.
The programme is a key part of the Prisons Service’s wider “Think Prisons 360” strategy, which focuses on reforming and developing individuals.
Rugby was chosen because its core values such as respect, discipline, teamwork, honesty, and strength of character, fit perfectly with the goals of correctional facilities. These values help build better citizens.
By launching this effort, Ghana is also showing its support for important international goals. The rugby programme directly contributes to four United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:
Good Health and Well-Being: By encouraging physical fitness and mental wellness through sport.
Quality Education: By teaching practical life skills and building strong values.
Reduced Inequalities: By creating fair and inclusive opportunities for young people who may be marginalised.
Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: By promoting respect for rules, peaceful conflict resolution, and responsible behaviour.
The programme takes a complete approach, helping two main groups. For young people in correctional centres, rugby offers a clear path forward. It combines physical activity with lessons on leadership and good behaviour, giving them structure and hope. For prison officers, the sport helps build stronger teams, develop leadership abilities, and maintain physical fitness.
A more united and capable staff helps create a safer and more positive environment for everyone.
To make sure the programme is a success, the GRFU and the Ghana Prisons Service will work closely together. Their partnership guarantees that all rugby activities meet the required safety standards and support the main goal of rehabilitation.
The GRFU will provide expert coaches and structured training plans, following the “Sport for Development” guidelines set by World Rugby and Rugby Africa.
This new approval is about much more than just adding a sport to the schedule. It shows that the Ghana Prisons Service is becoming a forward-looking organisation that understands the power of sport to change lives, support personal growth, and help people build a better future. The GRFU is fully committed to supporting the programme for the long term, ensuring it creates lasting and meaningful results.