SkillHubs : transnational prison up-skilling guidance and training model : research report with projected guidelines

Abstract

This research report presents the needs assessment and foundational data for the European Erasmus+ Skillhubs project, which aims to facilitate the reintegration and employability of prison inmates into society through up-skilling and re-skilling. The report explores adult prison education across partner countries (Belgium, Malta, Moldova, Romania, Slovenia, and the United Kingdom), focusing on three core basic skills—literacy, numeracy, and digital skills—and three transversal skills—complex problem solving, critical thinking, and problem solving. Combining a review of European adult education literature, focus group discussions with prison staff and educators, and surveys of male prison inmates, the study analyzes the current state of prison education, factors hindering participation, learning environment limitations, and digital infrastructure gaps. The report concludes with targeted recommendations to improve competence-based education, teacher training, accreditation, and cross-sectoral collaboration between correctional facilities and external community stakeholders.