Roundtable Discussion on the Establishment of a Corrections Learning Academy скачать в хорошем качестве

Roundtable Discussion on the Establishment of a Corrections Learning Academy

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) hosted a successful roundtable discussion on the establishment of a corrections learning academy at Kgoši Mampuru II Correctional Centre on 2 March 2023. The discussion involved academics from higher learning institutions, other academies in the public sector, the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster (JCPS) as well as oversight bodies in the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA) space. Part of the opening remarks by the National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale was to detail the need for an academy that will contribute to educating, training and development of an ideal correctional official that is dynamic to the evolving environment. The discussion was directed towards guiding DCS on the nexus that will guide the process and be aligned to the departmental objectives. Hot on the heels of National Commissioner was Professor Busani Ngcaweni from the National School of Government. He ignited a necessary discussion on the need of continuous development for public servants and how different entities of the state have structured their academies. Guiding the Professor’s presentation was insight from international and local practices which expressed how the School of Government in South Africa has laid a framework for the public service. Experts in attendance made presentations and debated extensively on a need to create academies that produce quality content and explored avenues for collaboration whilst sharing resources. The likes of SAPS, SANDF and representatives from academia such the University of South Africa, University of Zululand, Tshwane University of Technology, and the University of Limpopo shared insights on what works and what does not work, how their academies are established and structured, their stakeholders, national and international footprint, the funding models, and the advantages of virtual campuses thus responding to the 4th and 5th industrial revolutions. They all expressed their willingness to work with Correctional Services on its journey of establishing this unique academy. Correctional Services has given itself a three-year period to complete the ground work and be ready to launch an academy that will create a foundation for the Africa University of Corrections becoming a reality.