After 94.4% pass rate, prisons prepare bigger matric class
PRETORIA — South Africa’s correctional services schools are preparing 268 inmates for this year’s matric examinations, following a 94.4% overall pass rate in 2025.
The candidates are enrolled at 18 correctional services schools nationwide. Their number has increased from 171 last year, adding 97 candidates to the class that will sit the 2026 National Senior Certificate examinations.
National Commissioner of Correctional Services Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale said the 56.7% increase reflected continued progress in expanding education within correctional facilities. In a statement issued on Friday, he encouraged candidates to approach the examinations with confidence built on their preparation.
“The long hours of studying, attending classes, engaging with educators and collaborating with your fellow inmates will be rewarded through your results,” he said. “Remain disciplined, believe in your abilities and give your best throughout the examination period.”
According to SAnews, the Department of Correctional Services said all necessary arrangements were in place to support the candidates during the examination period. Academic support forms part of its efforts to help inmates prepare for further study and opportunities after release.
Thobakgale also acknowledged the educators, school principals and officials responsible for supporting learning inside correctional facilities. He said their work contributed to the personal development of those in the department’s care.
The department expects the 2026 results in January 2027 and hopes more correctional services schools will achieve a 100% pass rate. Last year’s confirmed overall result of 94.4% provides the benchmark for the larger group preparing to write this year.
Formal schooling operates alongside vocational training and other rehabilitation programmes. The department said these programmes aim to equip offenders with qualifications and practical skills that can support further education, employment and reintegration into society.
The examinations will now test the academic preparation of candidates across the 18 schools, with the January results showing how the expanded class performed.
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