CAPE TOWN - The Minister of Correctional Services, Pieter Groenewald, has thrown his weight behind the achievements of learners in correctional service facilities.
He praised them for their success in the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
A total of 180 learners from 18 Correctional Services Schools sat for their exams, securing a pass rate of 94.4 percent
This figure surpasses the national average of 88 percent.
In addition to this, 15 schools achieved a 100 percent pass rate, improving from 13 schools in 2024, and a total of 132 distinctions were earned.
KwaZulu-Natal deserves special recognition for producing the highest number of matriculants, with 50 learners, of whom 45 attained Bachelor.
READ | Floods ravage Limpopo, Mpumalanga, It's George vs Steenhuisen, 2025 Matrics soar
The Johannesburg Female Correctional Centre School achieved a 100 percent pass rate.
The Minister defended the government’s investment in incarcerated learners, emphasising the broader societal benefits.
He said while they may be criminals and have been jailed, the facility can not keep them inside forever, and as such, must push for rehabilitation efforts.
"It is a key to open a door, and now, they can say to themselves, I did obtain something, and that is a key, and that will further enhance their rehabilitation even in society."
Groenewald says beyond academics, inmates are also equipped with practical skills.