Moves to make matric studies compulsory for prison inmates
This week, the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, hailed the inmate class of 2023 who achieved a 93.2% in the matric exams.
From left to right: Best Learner in Correctional Services for 2023 Matric Exams, Mathew Christopher Benn, Deputy Minister of Correctional Services, Nkosi Phathekile Holomisa, in 2nd (now a parolee), Devon Cameron Jacobs and in 3rd, Nthuthuko Mshibe
Clarence Ford speaks to Chrispin Phiri, Spokesperson at the Department of Justice and Correctional Services.
Plans are underway to make matric studies compulsory for prison inmates who don't currently hold the National Senior Certificate qualification.
The Department of Justice and Correctional Services is said to be in favour of the move in a bid to reduce recidivism rates.
This week, Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola, celebrated the achievements of the inmate class of 2023 who secured a 93.2% pass rate.
"Education is the only gateway out of poverty. People who are educated not only behave better but they give themselves an economic chance in this country."
Chrispin Phiri, Spokesperson - Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services
"The importance of education in correctional facilities cannot be overstated."
Chrispin Phiri, Spokesperson - Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services
Top of the class for 2023 was Western Cape inmate Mathew Christoper Benn who is currently detained at Brandvlei Correctional Centre.
Benn obtained an average of 86.14%, with six distinctions in English First Additional Language (83%), Mathematics Literacy (86%), Life Orientation (85%), Business Studies (92%), Geography (89%) and Tourism (92%).
"There are a number of inmates who are able to further their studies to a tertiary level, but that would be for the families to pay."
Chrispin Phiri, Spokesperson - Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services
But while the good results are one thing, have the inmates shown remorse for the victims of their crimes, asks Clarence Ford?
"They have and I think that is exactly why they are engaging in the rehabilitation programmes we have in our facilities."
Chrispin Phiri, Spokesperson - Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services