By: Isaac Kwabena Boadu Date: 13th February 2026
President Cyril Ramaphosa has launched a state-of-the-art correctional training facility inspired by the principles of Nelson Mandela. The Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy, situated at Drakenstein Correctional Centre, formerly known as Victor Verster Prison in Paarl, was officially inaugurated by President Cyril Ramaphosa on February 11th, 2026. This marks a significant shift towards humane correctional practices in the country.
As part of the 36th anniversary in remembering Nelson Mandela’s release from prison, the academy which was launched on Wednesday 11th February, will train officials in line with UN standards for treating prisoners, focusing on dignity and fairness. It’s set to become a knowledge-sharing platform for local and global corrections experts. Notably, this site echoes Mandela’s own history where he was held at Victor Verster Prison, and spent the last 14 months of his 27-year incarceration there, before his release.
President Ramaphosa emphasized the academy’s role as a beacon of hope, highlighting dignity and humanity in justice. The correctional center will train prisoners with skills and education to enable them recuperate quickly into the society as part of measures to align with the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners.
AFRICAN VOICES INTERNATIONAL, FREEDOM IN AFRICA
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