Young Prisoners in Monrovia, Liberia, Targeted in Salesians “prison fellowship program”

In the April 5 report published by MissionNewswire, the official news service of Salesian Missions, which is the U.S.-based development arm of SDB, education initiatives are also highlighted.

“School lessons take place Monday to Friday between 12-2 p.m. In addition to English and mathematics, life-relevant topics are addressed with a focus on anti-aggression training. After the last session, games are organized for the youth,” they add.

The Salesian report also indicates that the Monrovia-based prison “has a small house where sick inmates are taken to receive medical care.”

“Medical staff provide exams and can administer medication. This is done in consultation with the prison administration so that the medication is not resold,” SDB officials say, and add, “Those who are seriously ill are transported to the Catholic Hospital in Monrovia.”

Salesians in Liberia also support youth after they are released from prison, they have also said in the April 5 report in which they highlight the facilitation of access to continued education and vocational training to young prisoners aimed at their reintegration back into their respective communities.

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“From October to December 2022, support was provided to 11 school students and three vocational trainees,” SDB members say.

They add, “During this same time period, Salesians also renovated the kitchen at Don Bosco Matadi to increase the food supply for the inmates.” 

“In order to keep the costs for feeding the young and sick inmates as low as possible, the food was prepared by employees from Don Bosco Matadi. This also made it possible to offer the food to as many inmates as possible,” Salesians have reported.

In the April 5 report, the interim Director of Salesians Missions is quoted as saying, “Providing services like this for young people in prisons gives them a fighting chance at a better life once they are released.” 

“Youth need access to counseling to process why they are there and then activities like skills training so that when they are released, they can find legitimate work,” Fr. Timothy Ploch says.

The Salesian Priest adds in reference to young prisoners, “The goal is to make sure they are contributing members of their communities and do not return to prison.”

Jude Atemanke is a Cameroonian journalist with a passion for Catholic Church communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea in Cameroon. Currently, Jude serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.