’Access to education remains a pillar of rehabilitation and formal education ensures that offenders remain focused amid their circumstances as they strive for a new beginning.’
THE ACTING national commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), Makgothi Thobakgale, has wished all Grade 12 inmates well as they commence with their final exams.
The area communication manager for the Department of Correctional Services in the Kimberley management area, Siphiwo Nomvethe, said there were 14 inmates in the Northern Cape who were registered to write their matric exams.
“They will all write their exams at Tswelopele Correctional Centre,” said Nomvethe.
Department of Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said that a total of 211 inmates throughout the country were registered for the 2021 National Senior Certificate examinations.
“Inmates wrote their first paper, Computer Applications Technology (CAT), on Tuesday. The subject provides inmates with relevant technological, computing and information technology skills for the labour market,” said Nxumalo.
“The department has 15 registered formal schools, with an additional two from the public-private partnership (PPP) facilities rendering basic education, in line with the curriculum of the Department of Basic Education.
“In spite of the challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, the department is satisfied with the level of preparation and the support provided to the learners.
“Access to education remains a pillar of rehabilitation and formal education ensures that offenders remain focused amid their circumstances as they strive for a new beginning.”
Thobakgale said that DCS educators offered extra support classes and went beyond the allocated hours in an effort to ensure that inmates were well prepared and would achieve the best possible results.
“Working together with the Department of Basic Education, DCS can guarantee yet another credible examination process, as all examination centres will be invigilated as per the rules governing exam procedures.
“Education is regarded as an essential component of the reconstruction, development and transformation of South African society. Formal education is an important part of the rehabilitation process.”
