DON'T REPEAT OUR MISTAKES!

THESE prisoners have learned from their mistakes and are turning their lives around while in prison.

And now kids and the community can learn from them!

With the help and guidance of correctional services officials, the prisoners manufactured wheelchairs for vulnerable disabled people. They also gave Cebelihle Primary School in Govan Mbeki kasi, Port Elizabeth a new lick of paint.

The event was held at Cebelihle Primary on Monday.

Speaking on behalf of the inmates, John Tee (50) told Daily Sun: “I learned the hard way and became a pastor in prison. So far I’ve spent 15 years in jail for committing rape.

“These donations are a symbol of giving back to the community. Our involvement in this project also proves our willingness to be reintegrated into society.

“We also want pupils to learn from us how to take care of their communities.

“We do not wish for any of them to wear this orange uniform. Instead they must prioritise their education to secure a bright future,” he said.

The commissioner for St Albans Prison, Mandla Jam and a team of correctional officers led the initiative.

“Together with the inmates we always contribute to the community.

“The wheelchairs were assembled by the inmates in our workshop. Five disabled people from this kasi will benefit from these wheelchairs.

“The rest of 35 wheelchairs will go to an old age home. Kids from this school also got uniforms which were bought with money donated by officers. The prisoners cleaned the school premises and painted eight classrooms,” he said.