LAW breakers and victims of crime are getting a great chance at employment and entrepreneurship.

This comes after the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) announced a new Skills Development Programme, aimed at empowering victims of crime, parolees and probationers.

The initiative will provide inmates with market-related skills and vocational training, to facilitate their rehabilitation and social reintegration. 

The programme is being rolled out in partnership with the Ekurhuleni Artisans and Skills Training College, in Kempton Park, Johannesburg.

The department said the initiative, funded by the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority, will provide 100 selected participants from the greater Johannesburg area, with accredited trade-related training. 

“The programme is designed not only to enhance employability, but also to foster entrepreneurial opportunities among its beneficiaries. The beneficiaries will undergo six months of training under the programme.

“[Participants] will be equipped with practical skills in trades such as, pumbling, welding, electrical work, bricklaying, air conditioning and refrigeration. Upon completion, participants will receive trade certificates, boosting their prospects for meaningful employment or self-employment,” the department said. – Source: SAnews.gov.za