President Ramaphosa launches Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy, promoting human rights in correctional facilities

President Cyril Ramaphosa officially opened the Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy at the Drakenstein Correctional Centre on Wednesday, February 11.

The launch took place at the historic site formerly known as Victor Verster Prison, from where former President Nelson Mandela walked to freedom on February 11, 1990, after 27 years in prison.

President Ramaphosa was welcomed by Minister of Correctional Services Dr Pieter Groenewald, Deputy Minister Lindiwe Ntshalintshali, and National Commissioner of Correctional Services Makgothi Thobakgale, along with other dignitaries.

As part of the programme, the president toured Madiba House, where Mandela spent the final years of his imprisonment before his release.

"We are here to open a training center that will carry Madiba’s name and carry forward his legacy of service, leadership, and rebuilding. The training academy stands as a powerful affirmation of the values Madiba stood for and lived by, and that continue to guide our democracy," said President Ramaphosa. 

He said the facility is aligned with the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, widely known as the Nelson Mandela Rules, which set out international standards to ensure the dignity and rights of inmates are protected.

The establishment of the academy aims to strengthen South Africa’s commitment to human rights and humane correctional practices.

"We cannot talk about overcoming crime in South Africa without having a frank, honest conversation about the rehabilitation of offenders, their reintegration into society, and prevention of re-offending," said President Ramaphosa.  

Last year, work commenced on refurbishing the Drakenstein Management Area Training Center into the new facility.

"It will focus on providing education, skills training and support to inmates in line with the Nelson Mandela Rules - extending the vistas of opportunity to inmates in preparation for life outside prison, and those serving long sentences, a chance to better themselves," said President Ramaphosa.

Correctional Services Deputy Minister Lindiwe Ntshalintshali said much of the work showcased at the academy - from tiling and electrical work, to landscaping and furniture-making - was completed by inmates under the guidance of departmental artisans.

She used the occasion to call on South Africans not to forget the sacrifices that shaped the country’s democracy.

“I’m calling on all South Africans to say, 'You dare not fail' (sic). We are a product of a struggle. Never forget where you come from and never forget what shaped and moulded you," she said.

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