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In the field of penology, very few studies have paid attention to the role of religion in prison. The sparse scholarly studies are largely focused on the advanced countries, and rarely on prisons in Africa. In addition, the findings on the impact of religion on inmates have yielded mixed results. This study examined the role of religion as a facet of inmates’ social relationships. It is argued that the decision of inmates to participate in religious activities is not necessarily for redemption but for materialism. The study settled on a mixed method approach to data collection. The data revealed that inmates who participated in religious activities did so purposely for the material benefits associated with the practice of religion. Religion provided inmates the context for contemplating their lives and mortality. The study concludes that religious beliefs and practices; regardless of how it comes to be experienced within the confines of the prison, are powerful forces that influence the conduct of prisoners, prison officials and civil society organisations.

Since the launch of Ghana’s Industrial Policy (GIP) in 2011, it has not received the needed backing for implementation. This has created a challenge for industrial efficiency for the economy of Ghana. Based on the implementation gaps identified in the policy, it is argued that Ghana can absolve itself from neoliberal economic dictates if it focuses on a new industrial policy approach that galvanises the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) sector. The objective of this paper is to review the GIP and to identify the gaps in its implementation and implications for SMEs’ growth in Ghana. Using the doctrinal research method, secondary data sources were analysed. The study revealed that the GIP comes in as a key development paradigm with private sector collaborations, yet its potentials have not been harnessed as expected. The paper concludes that, for a paradigm shift, it is rewarding to give greater attention to the manufacturing department of the SMEs with the view of developing a useful industrial policy regime.

Now, more than ever, the Ghanaian patient is better informed, more discerning and increasingly aware of his/her healthcare rights and options. Despite the rate of awareness, scholars have paid less attention to some medicolegal issues in the country. This paper examines the prevailing regime of healthcare delivery and regulation, and attempts to construct the context of medical misconduct and malpractice in Ghana. Using a desktop approach, the study made use of secondary data such as news articles, journal publications, and statutes, among others. The analysed data indicate that what determines professional-patient relationship outcomes are contextual issues of regulatory, institutional, political, socio-cultural, and legal. It is proposed that any prosecution or adjudication of malpractice claims, or considerations for medical law reforms, must be done with due regard to the prevailing context, if just and suitable ends are envisaged.

Poverty is a condition in which people and communities lack the resources and basic elements necessary for a minimum standard of living. Poverty means that the level of income from employment is too low to meet basic human needs. Poor individuals or families are likely not to have sufficient housing, clean water, healthy diet, and health care. This paper examines the concept of poverty from the perspective of local actors. The study made use of a qualitative approach to data gathering and analysis. The data discussion revealed that participants interpreted poverty to mean lack of money to meet basic human needs such as food, shelter, clothing, transportation, etc. It was also understood as one’s inability to meet desired goals. Among other interpretations, death was seen as the highest form of poverty. Lack of formal education and employment opportunities, the unwillingness of some local actors to work, the disadvantaged position of women, and early childbirth were seen as the main causes of poverty. In dealing with poverty, participants suggested the creation of employment opportunities by the government of Ghana and other private agencies. Acquiring formal education and practicing good financial management were also seen as key to alleviating poverty. The study concludes that poverty is collective among the indigenes, hence has huge social connotations, covertly and overtly.