Correctional services minister stands firm on empowering prisoners

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 Convicted prisoners who do not have a Grade Nine or higher qualification, will have to get one.

Correctional Services Minister Sibusiso Ndebele has announced that from the first of April - it will be compulsory for prisoners to complete Adult Education and Training levels one to four.

Ndebele made the announcement at the department's annual awards evening in Polokwane and said prisoners needed to walk out the doors with at least a certificate and a skill.

Last year, the matric pass rate for convicts was 79% compared to 68% in 2011.