The National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale, has encouraged 268 Grade 12 candidates from the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) to remain focused and draw confidence from their studies as they prepare to sit for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. The inmates are enrolled at 18 correctional services schools nationwide.
This year's number of inmate matriculants represents a significant 56.7% increase from 171 in 2025 to 268 in 2026, reflecting the department's continued commitment to promoting formal education as a key component of rehabilitation and personal development. The growth also highlights the progress made in expanding access to education within correctional facilities.
Thobakgale acknowledged the dedication of educators, school principals, and officials who continue to create learning opportunities and support candidates throughout their educational journeys. He emphasized that their work makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those entrusted to the department's care, with efforts reflected in lives improved and transformed through education.
The department remains committed to providing the academic support candidates need to prepare for the examinations and to equipping them to pursue further studies at higher education institutions or explore other opportunities upon release. The department achieved an overall pass rate of 94.4% in the 2025 NSC examinations and is optimistic about the 2026 results.
The NSC examinations serve as an important measure of the department's efforts to advance rehabilitation through formal education. By providing incarcerated individuals with access to learning opportunities, DCS aims to improve their prospects for further education, employment, and successful reintegration into society.
Alongside formal education, the department continues to prioritize vocational training and other rehabilitation programs that equip offenders with practical skills to support their successful reintegration into society. The department is fully prepared with all necessary arrangements in place to support the 268 inmate candidates throughout the examination period.
The department's efforts to promote education and rehabilitation are ongoing, with a focus on supporting inmates to make positive changes in their lives. The announcement of the 2026 results is expected in January 2027, with the department highly optimistic about more correctional services schools securing a 100% pass rate.
Key points
- A 56.7% increase in inmate matriculants was recorded from 171 in 2025 to 268 in 2026.
- The Department of Correctional Services achieved a 94.4% pass rate in the 2025 NSC examinations.
- The NSC examinations serve as a measure of the department's efforts to advance rehabilitation through formal education.
