VVU Alumni Accra chapter visits Nsawam medium security prisons to support inmates

The Accra Chapter of the Valley View University (VVU) Alumni Association embarked on a heartfelt visitation to the Nsawam Medium Security Prison on Saturday, April 19, 2025.

The outreach focused on spiritual upliftment, emotional encouragement, and educational empowerment of inmates, in line with the Chapter’s mission to serve and impact society meaningfully.

An over 45-member delegation, led by Eben Owusu-Amoh(President of the Accra Chapter) and Mr. Ernest Prempeh (Chair of the Prisons Visitation Committee), included alumni, chaplaincy support, and the talented Symphonials Ghana music group.

The team was warmly received by the Eastern Regional Commander of the Ghana Prisons Service, who joined senior officers, including the Chief Superintendent of the Reformers School, the Head of Chaplaincy, and Officer Martey, to welcome the group and commend the gesture officially.

Worship and Spiritual Encouragement

The visit began with a vibrant church service with the inmates. Opening with prayer and praise, the Symphonials led a soul-lifting musical ministration that deeply moved the inmates, who joyfully joined in song and dance.

The Chaplain from Valley View University, an alumnus of the institution, delivered a powerful sermon centered on hope and redemption. A heartfelt testimony from an inmate, who shared his transformation since incarceration, further underscored the life-changing impact of faith and education.

Focus on Education and Inmate Interaction

The team prioritized visiting the prison’s educational block, where they interacted with inmates enrolled in academic and vocational programs.

Valley View University, a Seventh-day Adventist institution, was deeply moved to learn that over 250 inmates are practicing Adventists.

One of the prison’s academic success stories is a Seventh-day Adventist inmate who recently graduated with First Class Honours from the University of Cape Coast. This remarkable achievement reflects the prison’s commitment to rehabilitation through education and the inmate’s personal determination.

The Chaplain offered prayers over the student body, and alumni engaged with inmates, listening to their personal stories and offering words of encouragement.

The team was also taken on a guided tour of the educational facilities.

Donations and Fellowship

The team donated various essential items, including food supplies, school materials, and toiletries, worth over 20,000 cedis, specifically to support the educational sector of the prison. To crown the moment, inmates in the educational block were treated to a meal of kenkey and tuo zaafi, fostering a warm atmosphere of fellowship and care.

Inmate Reflections and Appeal

The inmates, particularly the Adventist community, expressed deep gratitude for the visit and respectfully appealed for more regular visitations by the Church to support their spiritual growth and emotional well-being.

They highlighted how meaningful such engagements are to their journey of rehabilitation.

This Initiative: A Legacy in Motion

This outreach forms part of the Community Engagement and Outreach arm of the VVU Alumni Legacy Projects Fund, a 10-project initiative aimed at creating sustainable transformation through alumni-led programs.

The Accra Chapter encourages alumni, non-alumni supporters, institutions, influencers, and philanthropic organizations to learn more and donate via www.vvualumnilegacyfund.org to augment ongoing efforts.

Appreciation

On behalf of the Accra Chapter Executive, President Eben Owusu-Amoh expressed heartfelt thanks to the VVU fraternity for their generous individual donations. Special appreciation was extended to:

1. Prof. Winfred Larkotey, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Valley View University

2. Mr. Kobina Holman, Global President of the VVU Alumni Association

3. The University’s Transport Unit, for logistical support

4. The Symphonials Ghana, for their moving musical ministry

5. The Ghana Prisons Service, for their cooperation and warm hospitality.

Gratitude was also extended to the Planning Committee, chaired by Mr. Ernest Prempeh, for their dedication in organizing this impactful outreach.

Conclusion

The visitation to the Nsawam Medium Security Prison was a successful and deeply impactful mission. It reflected the Valley View Alumni Accra Chapter’s commitment to service, transformation, and hope.

“We believe that everyone deserves a second chance,” said Mr. Ernest Prempeh. “We are honored to stand beside these men on their journey of growth and reintegration.”

The Accra Chapter remains committed to sustaining such initiatives and invites broader alumni participation and support in future programs.