STUDENT PRISONERS' CHALLENGES FACED WITH SUPERVISORS DURING THEIR ACADEMIC STUDIES WHILE INCARCERATED: A CASE STUDY

This study investigates the challenges faced by student prisoners in their academic studies, specifically focusing on the difficulties encountered in their relationships with academic supervisors. The purpose is to understand and document the unique obstacles these students face while pursuing education during incarceration. The research method involved tape-recorded interviews with a purposively selected sample of 12 student prisoners, chosen based on their active enrollment and pursuit of qualifications while incarcerated at a Namibian prison. A professional English transcriber transcribed the tape-recorded data verbatim. The transcriptions were then analysed by the author using an interpretive paradigm to interpret the information. The findings reveal significant challenges related to communication barriers due to prison restrictions, limited access to academic resources, delays in receiving feedback, insufficient support and mentorship, and administrative hurdles. By shedding light on these issues, the study aims to provide insights and propose solutions to improve the academic experience and success of student prisoners. This research contributes to the broader understanding of educational challenges in correctional settings and underscores the need for tailored support systems to enhance the academic journey of incarcerated students.