​As part of the Mandela Day celebration, more than fifty children in foster care were taken on a tour of Leeuwkop Correctional Service in Sandton, aiming to modify bad behaviors among them and to correct such behaviors at an early age.

The tour was organized by the Gauteng Department of Social Development, Central Corridor, in partnership with Thomas Mofolo High School in Naledi, Soweto. They were accompanied by their parents with the purpose of teaching foster care beneficiaries about the justice system, the realities of prison life, and the consequences of criminal behavior.

Tsakane Maphophe, a social worker from Central Corridor, says the tour is called the School Holiday Prison Excursion.

“The tour aims to deter learners from being involved in crime by showcasing the realities of prison life, supporting rehabilitation efforts by maintaining family bonds, and promoting awareness about the consequences of criminal behavior,” says Maphophe.

She added that most of the children targeted are not raised by their biological parents and experience peer pressure, struggle with schoolwork, use drugs, and commit crimes.

These visits often involve interactions with inmates, tours of the facility, and discussions about rehabilitation and reintegration.

Upon their arrival, the warders welcomed them by ensuring that they were all searched and counted as they entered the prison.

Central Corridor Statutory Field Social Workers hoped to modify the behavior of foster children, as there is a trend of bullying among them, as reported by schoolteachers and through assessments, evaluations, observations, and interventions. Issues of substance abuse arise because these children are exposed to peer pressure, which leads to committing petty crimes such as shoplifting.

Thomas Mokoena from Leeuwkop Correctional Services complimented the department for its excellent work.

“Most of the prisoners here today began committing crimes at an early age, and we are happy as a correctional service to receive learners who need to be corrected at an early stage. It is our responsibility to guide them in the right direction,” says Mokoena.

This program aims to modify bad behaviors among the children and correct such behaviors at an early age.

A 17-year-old grade 11 learner, who cannot be named to protect his identity, says he lives with both grandparents, and his mother has passed away.

“I do not know my biological father; he could be one of the inmates since I was never introduced to him. I am glad to be one of the learners visiting prison, but I will pray to God that I do not end up here,” says the learner.