By Alicia Mmashakana
The Department of Correctional Services in partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and other stakeholders, officially began refurbishment work on the Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy at the Drakenstein Management Area on Nelson Mandela International Day.
The transformation of the existing Drakenstein Training Centre marked the symbolic start of what is set to become Africa’s first academy dedicated exclusively to the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, also known as the Nelson Mandela Rules.
The facility is expected to be officially opened in February 2026 during the annual 27 for Freedom Race.
“Nelson Mandela represented hope, having spent 27 years behind bars and rising to become an international icon,” said Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald.
“His life teaches us that even those in incarceration can transform and inspire. The Nelson Mandela Rules serve to uphold human dignity and remind us of the moral compass Madiba was, not only to South Africa but to the world.”
He urged society to respect the property and rights of others, emphasising that justice, rehabilitation and reintegration were only possible when principles were upheld both inside and outside prison.
The event brought together Deputy Minister Lindiwe Ntshalintshali, National Commissioner Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale and department staff who participated in hands-on refurbishment efforts including the removal of tiles and painting.
“This academy is a reaffirmation of our commitment to education, correction, and the advancement of human rights in incarceration,” Ntshalintshali said.
“It will serve as a knowledge hub, not only for South African officials but for the global corrections community.”
The academy is aims to institutionalise humane correctional practices, foster international cooperation and deepen understanding of prisoner rights in alignment with global standards.
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