MINISTER of Justice and Correctional Services Michael Masutha handed over special furniture to Siloe School for the Blind.
The 43 beds and 26 cabinets donated to the school were manufactured by inmates of Matatshe Prison in Thohoyandou, and Polokwane Prison.
The school at Thogoaneng Village outside Polokwane in Limpopo currently consists of 110 pupils who are blind and partially blind, as well as 18 teachers.
Masutha said the school has been benefiting from the department for four years through renovations and infrastructure.
“We know about the scramble for quality health services, proper infrastructure, quality education and teaching,” he said.
Masutha was speaking at the handover on Friday. He said the donation had a two-fold effect.
“This shows the significant work offenders have undertaken not only in the province, but across our country.”
He said offenders are required to play a meaningful role in community development to help rehabilitate and help them fit in again in the outside world.
Principal Egnes Lebelo said: “It’s a privilege to be chosen to benefit. The school is proud to be blessed with beds and cabinets.”
Limpopo Education MEC Ishmael Kgetjepe said: “It’s an honour to celebrate the handover of these much needed resources for our school.
“We are making a contribution towards quality education and ensuring a brighter future for the young people of our province.”