Inmates set for matric exams

THE Department of Correctional Services (DCS) is ready to commence with matric examinations, says the Acting National Commissioner James Smalberger. The Department is satisfied with the level of preparations, and has given necessary support to inmates in order to achieve best results possible.

A total of 211 inmates from 14 DCS schools are to sit for the final exams, a 63.5 percent increase from the 129 in the 2016 academic year. “The notable increase in the number of inmates enrolling for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations year-on-year demonstrates our rehabilitation efforts through formal education so that we can increase literacy levels of inmates, thus giving them a second chance in life,” said Smalberger. Patently critical, Correctional Services has not only increased the number of matriculants, but the quality of results has been increasing over the years. This is further demonstrated by the increased enrolments on subjects such as Mathematics, Accounting and Physical Science.

Working together with the Department of Basic Education, the Acting National Commissioner will want to assure citizens that the 14 accredited centres will run a credible examination process. In addition to the resident invigilators appointed by Basic Education, there will be strict monitoring and impromptu visits to all centres.

Education and skills development are at the forefront of rehabilitation programmes. This is also evidenced by the 10 526 offenders attending educational programmes in the current financial year. Hence formal schooling inside correctional centres will continue to be the beating heart of rehabilitation and remains crucial in building an informed citizenry. It remains compulsory for inmates without a qualification equivalent to Grade 9, to complete Adult Education and Training (AET) level 1 to 4. This is strategically aimed at eliminating illiteracy, under qualifications as well as the absence of critical technical skills, which are a key requirement for one to either source employment or be self-employment.

The Department carried out special assistance programmes for Mathematics and English as these subjects proved to be problematic in the previous years. “I wish all inmates the best of luck and I am confident that a 100 percent pass in all 14 schools is real,” said Smalberger.