The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has expressed confidence that their inmates are ready for the upcoming National Senior Certificate (NSC).
According to the department, their correctional service schools are fully prepared for the exams with 173 inmates expected to write from October 21 to November 27.
National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale praised educators for their dedication and hard work in preparing the inmates in their pursuit of a senior certificate.
“The Department of Correctional Services is pleased with the level of preparedness, as inmates have completed the academic syllabus on time and have undergone various assessments throughout the year. Educators from the department's 18 schools remain optimistic, having made significant efforts to ensure that all candidates are thoroughly prepared.
“Additionally, the department ensured that all required textbooks and stationery were delivered to schools in a timely manner. Education not only empowers offenders with knowledge but also offers them a path to a new life. It remains our commitment to provide growth and development opportunities for every inmate, as we believe in the power of education to transform lives,” said Thobakgale.
In collaboration with the Department of Basic Education (DBE), DCS schools achieved a 93% overall pass rate in 2023, with nine schools attaining a 100% pass rate.
“We have also embraced technological advancements in education. In 2024, the Intelsat Telematics System was introduced at Johannesburg Correctional Centre, offering both inmates and educators access to valuable study materials.
“The department is proud to maintain an incident-free record for NSC examinations, reflecting the professionalism and dedication of the officials, as well as the strict adherence to exam protocols set by the department of basic education.
“We have also embraced technological advancements in education. In 2024, the Intelsat Telematics System was introduced at Johannesburg Correctional Centre, offering both inmates and educators access to valuable study materials,” said Thobakgale.
Meanwhile the DBE is expecting 727 121 full-time candidates and 155 215 part-time candidates to sit for exams.
Umalusi has approved 162 question papers for the 2024 October to November exam period.
More than 55 000 markers have been appointed.
Cape Times