THE MINISTER of Correctional Services, Dr Pieter Groenewald said a milestone had been reached for prisoners of the matric class of 2024 who had a pass rate of 96.2 % with 13 schools receiving 100 percent and thanked the dedication of teachers in the country.

The results were live-streamed via SABC on Friday and was held at the Johannesburg Correctional Centre.

Groenewald confirmed that 171 prisoners took part in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams last year at 70 correctional schools across the country.

He said out of the 70 schools, 13 had received a 100 % pass rate,while 104 had qualified to further their studies at university with a Bachelor pass and a record increase of three percent.

Groenewald said it was thanks to the passion of educators which saw the prisoners flourish in an already daunting environment.

“To the parents, even if you watch this video on Youtube, remember your support is also of utmost importance, he explained.

“You have made a mistake in your life but we have the services to ensure that you can rehabilitate, to ensure that we have a successful reintegration as the contributors into society.

“This event is proof that we are fulfilling that responsibility.

“I want to say thank you to the educators not just here but to all teachers, thank you for your dedication.”

National commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale also applauded the prisoners for their exceptional results which had increased dramatically in the past decade.

“This is the result of a work of passion and we pride ourselves in these results,” he said.

“Some of the prisoners have taken up the duty of tutors.

“In the year 2014, 68.9 % pass rate was achieved and work has been done by educators, those who head our schools, part time and full time and some offenders have taken on the role as tutors and are training themselves to get into the teaching profession.”

Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Reginah Mhaule said education was the key for change.

“This a triumph, hope and resilience, where these qualities can be so hard to find.

“This stands as testament to the transformative power of our democracy and the transformative power of education.”

Last week, the Matric NSC results of 2024 were announced with a 87.3% pass rate.

Cape Argus

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SA prisoners achieve 96. 2% matric pass rate