Staff Reporter
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) to embrace technology, combat indiscipline, and maintain unwavering loyalty as the nation strives to achieve its Vision 2030 goals.
Addressing the 154th and 155th Recruit Correctional Officers’ Pass-Out Parade at Ntabazinduna Training School yesterday, President Mnangagwa highlighted the importance of a modern and ethical correctional system in fostering national development.
“Today’s pass-out parade symbolises the end of a physically and intellectually demanding transformative phase and marks the beginning of a challenging career. You are now ingrained with the values of patriotism, loyalty, and teamwork,” said President Mnangagwa.
A total of 1 620 recruits graduated, comprising 1 107 males and 513 females—a gender balance President Mnangagwa described as commendable.
He assured the ZPCS of continued Government support to fulfil its constitutional mandate of humane incarceration and rehabilitation of offenders for successful reintegration into society.
President Mnangagwa emphasised the role of technology in transforming correctional services.
He urged the ZPCS to adopt smart prison concepts and leverage data analysis to improve security, management, and rehabilitation efforts.
“The appropriate use of technology in the correctional domain can significantly enhance efficiency and rehabilitation outcomes. Modern data analysis techniques must inform robust intervention strategies tailored to individual needs and current trends,” he said.
The President also announced the establishment of a Community Information Centre at Ntabazinduna Training School as part of efforts to accelerate digital transformation.
“This centre will benefit both the ZPCS and the local community, leaving no one and no place behind,” he added.
President Mnangagwa issued a stern warning, reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance to corruption, indiscipline, and drug abuse within the security sector. He highlighted the growing threat of substance abuse, particularly among the youth.
“Zimbabwe is facing a challenge of drug and substance abuse, which threatens national security and economic development. The security sector is not spared. Anyone caught engaging in such unethical behaviour will face the full wrath of the law,” he warned.
President Mnangagwa commended the ZPCS for conducting awareness campaigns to address the issue and urged the new officers to reject illicit activities and focus on building a brighter future for Zimbabwe.
As part of the national development agenda, President Mnangagwa encouraged the graduates to uphold constitutionalism, professionalism, and discipline in their duties.
“Being a member of the Security Services requires unwavering loyalty and a strong commitment to serving the nation. Your integrity must remain untarnished by selfish interests,” he said.
He also applauded the ZPCS’s participation at the International Corrections and Prisons Association 2024 Annual Conference in Singapore, where it earned the prestigious Head of Service Award.
President Mnangagwa urged the recruits to approach their careers with optimism and a commitment to lifelong learning.
“Do not just dream of the future but become the architects of the future you want. Stay abreast of evolving trends in correctional management and continually sharpen your skills,” he advised.
Concluding his address, President Mnangagwa congratulated the graduating officers and wished them success in their careers.
“Carry with you the lessons and memories from your training and make a positive impact wherever you are deployed. I wish you all a joyous festive season and a prosperous 2025,” he said.
The pass-out parade showcased the rigorous six-month training the recruits underwent, covering areas such as security, constitutionalism, human rights, and gender development, which are essential for fostering a just and effective correctional system.
