College of Education
College of Education and Department of Correctional Services salute Unisa on its 150th anniversary
On 20 July 2023, the Westville Correctional Centre welcomed a diverse gathering of College of Education (CEDU) staff, and Department of Correctional Services (DCS) area commissioners, regional heads, inmates and distinguished guests to commemorate the auspicious occasion of Unisa's 150th. At the heart of the celebration was the Department of Correctional Services’ vital role in fostering a peaceful and safer South Africa through innovative inmate rehabilitation and education programmes.
Attendees included (seated from left): Dina Mothweni (Acting Regional Commissioner, DCS), Jabulisile Chonco (Regional Head: Development and Care, DCS), Prof Sindile Ngubane (Unisa Head: Institute for Open Distance Learning, CEDU) and Prof Ramodungoane Tabane (Unisa Director: School of Educational Studies, CEDU)
These programmes encompass various educational opportunities, including general education, further education, and higher education and training. Acting DCS Regional Commissioner, Dinah Mothweni, proudly highlighted the achievements of learners, particularly Grade 12 students, who have excelled in their studies. With a commitment to positive outcomes, DCS plans to expand its higher education and training centres, ensuring brighter futures for those in custody.
DCS is an indispensable stakeholder in shaping the country’s history and transforming lives. It is worth noting that eighty-five students from DCS in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) have enrolled in various higher education and training programmes across the eight colleges and centres at Unisa.
In a fascinating speech, Prof Ramodungoane Tabane (Director: School of Educational Studies, CEDU) on the topic "Understanding who you are", encouraged the audience to embark on a journey of self-discovery and align their personalities, interests and capabilities with their academic and personal pursuits. He emphasised the importance of recognising our true selves and staying authentic while not being swayed by societal expectations. Understanding our likes and dislikes, acknowledging our capabilities and making informed decisions about our future paths, were focal points of his thought-provoking message. By sharing the example of choosing careers that genuinely resonate with one’s unique traits, Tabane urged everyone to find happiness and fulfilment.
Dr Mbongiseni Mdakane (centre) flanked by volunteers from the audience
Dr Mbongiseni Mdakane, a lecturer at the Department of Psychology and researcher at CEDU’s Institute for Open Distance Learning, shared his remarkable journey post-incarceration. He fearlessly disclosed his past criminal record and highlighted the challenges faced by those seeking education and employment opportunities after serving time.
Mdakane’s transformation through education is an inspiring testament to the power of academic pursuits in breaking the cycle of reoffending and embracing a positive future. He passionately advocated for creating opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals to pursue education, urging people to recognise the potential in every individual, regardless of his/her past.
This event served as a reminder that education knows no boundaries and can pave the way for a brighter future for all.
#Unisa150
* By Dineo Horner (Acting Marketing and Communications Specialist, CEDU) and Mario Sales (Programme and Qualification Mix Coordinator, Tuition and Learner Support, CEDU)
Publish date: 2023-08-04 00:00:00.0
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