PRETORIA – National Commissioner of Correctional Services Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale has issued an encouraging message to the 268 Grade 12 candidates from the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) as they sit for their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.

Emphasising the value of hard work, Commissioner Thobakgale urged the candidates to draw confidence from the dedication they have poured into their studies.

“The long hours of studying, attending classes, engaging with educators and collaborating with your fellow inmates will be rewarded through your results. Remain disciplined, believe in your abilities and give your best throughout the examination period,” the Commissioner said in a statement.

A substantial surge in inmate matriculants

The 268 candidates are currently enrolled across 18 correctional services schools nationwide. Commissioner Thobakgale noted a significant 56.7% increase in the number of inmate matriculants, rising from 171 candidates in 2025 to 268 in 2026.

According to the department, this impressive growth reflects continued progress in expanding access to education within correctional facilities. It also underscores the department’s unwavering commitment to promoting formal education as a foundational pillar of rehabilitation and personal development.

Recognising educators and ongoing support

In addition to encouraging the students, the Commissioner paid tribute to the dedication of educators, school principals, and DCS officials who work tirelessly to create learning environments and support candidates throughout their educational journeys.

“Your work makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those entrusted to our care. Continue the good work, knowing that your efforts are reflected in lives improved and transformed through education,” Thobakgale stated.

The department remains fully prepared, with all necessary arrangements in place to support the candidates throughout the examination period. Beyond the exams, DCS provides crucial academic support designed to equip inmates to pursue further studies at higher education institutions or explore alternative opportunities upon their release.

Building on past success

The department heads into the current examination period riding high on the momentum of strong past results, having achieved an overall pass rate of 94.4% in the 2025 NSC examinations.

Looking ahead, Correctional Services is already casting its sights toward January 2027, when the 2026 results are announced. The department remains highly optimistic that even more correctional services schools will secure a coveted 100% pass rate.

Education as a gateway to reintegration

The NSC examinations serve as a vital benchmark for the department’s broader mission to advance rehabilitation through formal learning. By providing incarcerated individuals with access to quality education, DCS aims to drastically improve their prospects for further studies, meaningful employment, and successful reintegration into society.

Alongside academic programs, the department continues to prioritise vocational training and other targeted rehabilitation initiatives, ensuring offenders leave custody equipped with practical, real-world skills to support their transition back into communities.

ALSO READ: Education department declares all systems go for 2026 matric exams