INMATES GRADUATE WITH SCARE SKILLS!

EIGHTY inmates of the Heidelberg Correctional Centre, in Gauteng, were given skills development certificates on Wednesday by Gauteng correctional services commissioner, Grace Molatedi.

The inmates were taught electrical work and plumbing skills through an initiative set up by the department and the Gauteng City Region Academy.

Correctional Services’ policy is to help offenders learn skills in fields where there is a shortage so they can re-enter the economy when they are released.

The programme aims to help offenders improve their behaviour so they can be accepted back in their communities.

Molatedi was also at the prison to open a new skills centre.

Speaking to offenders receiving their certificates, Molatedi said: “I’m very grateful to be a part of this and to officially open the skills development centre for offenders.

“As you may be aware, this is only the third week since I took over responsibility as regional commissioner.”

Molatedi said despite having previously worked as an area commissioner in Tshwane, she was still in the process of educating herself about what was happening in the province.

“The opening of the skills development centre here today demonstrates our commitment, as the leadership of this region, to ensure that offenders at correctional facilities in Gauteng have access to skills development. It will improve their lives.”

Molatedi said she hoped offenders would take advantage of opportunities being offered at the skills development centre so they are prepared for their release.