Moyane said that starting from this year, his department would invest at least R500 000 to provide basic and advanced training to “36 national ambassadors of excellence” identified since 2008 as well as those selected from this year onwards.

“Our vision clearly states that we want to be one of the best in delivering Correctional Services with integrity and commitment to excellence. The Corrections Excellence Awards are a means or an expression of our commitment to value our officials, without whom the best of our achievements …would remain a pipedream,” said Moyane.

He added that never again shall the recognition of officials’ excellent performance be relegated to non-priority status.

Regional Commissioner James Smalberger echoed this sentiment, saying he was not going to tolerate lazy officials.