TRANSITION FROM SECURE CARE TO ACHIEVEMENT: GRADE 12 LEARNER RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS SCHOOL AWARD

By Madali Chibambu

• A Grade 12 learner from Soshanguve Secure Care Centre receives a prestigious academic award, demonstrating the transformative impact of education within rehabilitation programmes.
• Three secure care learners achieve matric success and enrol at UNISA, highlighting the Gauteng Department of Social Development’s commitment to reintegration through education.
• Collaboration between secure care staff, psychosocial services and local schools shows how structured support systems help young people rebuild their futures.

For one Grade 12 learner at Soshanguve Secure Care Centre in Tshwane, what began as an ordinary day turned into a life-changing moment.
Karabo* (not his real name), one of three matric learners at the centre, was left speechless when the Head of Institution, Patricia Ramere, informed him that he had been nominated to receive an academic award from a local school in Jane Furse.
“I thought I was dreaming,” he recalls with a shy smile. “When the Care Worker confirmed it, that’s when I started believing it. I have never received an award before in my life. The Soshanguve Secure Care Centre made my dream come true.”
A young person in conflict with the law, Karabo, never imagined that while in secure care, he would one day stand out for academic excellence. The news became even more real when he was asked to inform his parents.
“I couldn’t wait to call them. Hearing them scream with excitement on the phone meant everything to me. They were over the moon,” he says.
Karabo received a tablet, executive pens and coffee mugs in recognition of his hard work, symbols of a milestone he says he will treasure for years to come. “I’m not going to use them anytime soon. I want to display them where everyone can see what I achieved,” he adds proudly.
Karabo is among three students from the centre who excelled in their matric examinations and have subsequently secured admission to the University of South Africa (UNISA). He is presently pursuing studies in Operational Management and has received his course materials, approaching this new phase with commitment and focus.
Karabo’s achievement highlights the transformative role of education in rehabilitation. Having entered the Soshanguve Secure Care Centre in 2023, he says the experience helped him reflect deeply on his life choices and remain focused on his studies, a journey that ultimately led to a Bachelor’s pass and admission to university, a proud moment for both him and his family.
Behind the scenes, his success was supported by structured educational programmes, psychosocial services and dedicated staff at the centre. The Gauteng Department of Social Development provides rehabilitation services within secure care facilities, ensuring that young people continue their education while working toward reintegration into society.
Head of the Soshanguve Secure Care Centre, Patricia Ramere, said the achievement is a testament to discipline, consistency and teamwork.
“We are proud of what these learners have achieved. Their journey has not been easy, but they have shown determination and taken responsibility for their studies. Education plays a critical role in rehabilitation and preparing them for reintegration into society,” said Ramere.
Care Worker Noxolo Maduna highlighted the importance of collaboration with Soshanguve High School through integration programmes.
“We supported them with schoolwork, homework and exam preparation. Their results show that rehabilitation, when supported by education, can truly make a difference,” she said.
For Karabo, the award is more than a certificate or a tablet; it is proof that his story is still being written and that his future holds promise far greater than his past.
*Name changed to protect identity.