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EDUCATED AND REFORMED: Bongani Tshabalala, William Mamabolo and George Makgato after graduating in varoious tertiary qualifications at Leeuwkop Prison. PHOTO: VELI NHLAPO

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George Makgato, 25, of Mapetla, Soweto, an accounting science graduate, has just finished serving a five-year sentence for attempted murder and possession of a firearm.

"I started studying when I arrived in prison because I believe I can still do something good with my life," he said.

"I was imprisoned in 2008. I have served my sentence and was granted parole in June. Since then I have been sending out applications to accounting firms for graduate programmes and, yes, I do have hope that I will get a job," he said.

Makgato, who got 13 distinctions, admits he made a mistake, but through the support of his elder brother, Felix, he was motivated to get his life back on track.

"The greatest glory in life is not in never falling, but getting up every time."

These were some of the words of inspiration that Professor Sipho Seepe shared with Makgato and the 106 inmates who graduated at Leeuwkop Prison yesterday. The inmates graduated in various courses - ranging from national certificates to degrees, all of which were completed via correspondence.

Among others who were inspired by Seepe's motivational words was Bongani Tshabalala, 26, who said: "I can work as a receptionist, or even at better jobs that require computer knowledge. I am planning to do a Information Technology Diploma when I am released in March. I do not think a criminal record will hinder me. I have seen others leave prison and get jobs."

Sowetan also spoke to William Mamabolo, who was 31-years-old when he murdered his wife. He was jailed in 2006 and is serving a 15-year sentence.

Since his incarceration he has completed a BCom in Industrial and Organisational Psychology, N6 level in Civil Engineering, a Human Resources and a Preaching certificate. He said he had been a teacher for 11 years when "frustration and confusion" led him to murder.

" I don't think a criminal record will stop me. Without hope one cannot live for even five minutes," said Mamabolo, adding that he regretted his actions.

Sowetan spoke to several graduates who all said support from their families was instrumental in their achievements . Inmates need people outside to register and pay fees on their behalf.

- moengk@sowetan.co.za

Comments

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Wed Jun 19 01:26:00 SAST 2013 ::

Sep 28, 2012

MorenaWaPolelo

Good!!
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Sep 28, 2012

Serene

really?
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Sep 28, 2012

THEmadame2B-BBEE

These criminal must F@k off, they have not changed a degree won’t change you. I know because I had an experienced with the so called "reformed criminals" I almost died, they will never change. Believe me the DEVIL IS STILL THERE
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Sep 28, 2012

bytheway1

Thank you for showing what can be done and congratulations too. I believe in people and although we will never be able to determine who has really changed or not, I still believe it is possible for people to change their lives. "What the mind can conceive and believe, it will achieve"
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Sep 28, 2012

magabucks

Congratulaitons to them all! @THEmadame2B.... sorry about your experience but some do change. Judge Mathis is an example of how a 'sorry life' can be turned around. They have to look forward to the next day with renewed sense of hope and believe that all will be alright. Changing is an evolving processe - one step at a time and with the right people around them they will succeed!
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Sep 28, 2012

SWEETYK

CONGRATS
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Sep 28, 2012

Majamela

Big ups to you gents. Akulahlwa mbeleko ngakufelwa.
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Sep 28, 2012

Boogie1985

A mistake is when you sent airtime to a wrong number as you did not pay attention, or calling your wife with your makhwapeni's name cause she gave it good last night but definately not killing another human being unless it was an accident or something! You people terorize innocent citizens then go have it all in prison. Good luck anyway in finding a job because i doubt if there is an accounting firm that will employ an ex convict
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Sep 28, 2012

MommaC

So if you want a university degree then the easiest way to get one is to be a criminal?

It is great that they have the skills so that crime is less of an option but I can't help feeling bad for all the GOOD, law abiding kids who don't get this same opportunity.
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Sep 28, 2012

jnrb

Good stuff boys! Now let the past belong to the past and never look back!
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