Eastern Cape prisoners record improved matric pass rate

OFFENDERS in some Eastern Cape prisons are proving they want a second chance at life.

At one correctional facility inmates achieved a 100% matric pass rate.

All seven inmates who sat for their exams last year at the Cradock Youth Centre passed, Correctional Services provincial spokeswoman Vuyo Gadu said. Three inmates received university passes and one a higher-certificate pass.

Gadu said at Sada prison 21 inmates sat for the 2017 matric exam.

Eight received higher-certificate passes, one would write a supplementary exam, and four failed.

At the St Albans Medium B facility 67% of the inmates who wrote matric passed. Two received university passes and two higher-certificate passes.

Gadu said there was an 18 percentage point improvement in the pass rate from 2016.

“However, the department does not have any financial assistance for them to further their studies after matric. The funding proposals lie with their support structures and through the inmates receiving bursaries or scholarships.”

Gadu could not provide statistics for other facilities, but said officials encouraged inmates to study to achieve personal growth. “Personal development of inmates through the provision of the literacy, education and skills competency programme are key for rehabilitation.” —