A total of 242 Robben Island prisoners were reported to be studying at high school level in February this year, reflecting the large number of young people who have joined the ranks of political prisoners since 1976.
According to the Prisons Department, 93 prisoners were studying for senior certificate (matric), 95 for junior certificate and two for diplomas. The remaining 52 were at Std. 5 level. Studies are carried out by correspondence.
None of these prisoners will be able to continue their studies beyond matric level, since this privilege was withdrawn in November 1977. There are currently 33 prisoners studying for degrees which were already under way before prohibition.
A total of 437 prisoners were said to be held on Robben Island for 'security' offences; 36 of these had life sentences and 53 were Namibians.
The new Prime Minister P.W. Botha visited Robben Island in January and was reported to be impressed. "The Prisons Department is doing a good job here" he said.
