He believes that this battle faced by many ex-offenders could cause them to return to crime and imprisonment.

“I was arrested in 2006 and was sentenced to 15 years. When I was sent to serve my sentence at the Barberton Department of Correctional Services (DCS), I only had grade 11. While I was behind bars I completed my matric and used my time to earn accredited qualifications like a diploma in human resources and a international computer driving-licence certificate.

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“I also used my time there to assist my fellow offenders by teaching adult basic-education training,” said Bhembe.
He said after his release on parole in 2014, he assisted at Sikhutsele Primary School where he taught maths to grade five and social science to grade six on a part-time basis.

“Because I was given a stipend which was not sufficient to meet my needs, I had to quit when I was offered an opportunity to work for a private-sector company. The job didn’t last long, as I was told that my contract was not going to be renewed. I had to leave and seek greener pastures elsewhere.”

Currently, he is helping grade 12 learners at KaMhola High School, where he charges each learner R50 a month, which enables him to make ends meet.

Despite being involved in after-class studies, Bhembe also works as the DCS’ crime ambassador. He teaches people, especially youth, about the consequences of crime.

“It does not pay at all. You are fortunate to have people like us who honestly come forward and warn you about the consequences of crime. Inside there (behind bars), life is not rosy. You are lucky if you come out there alive. Look at us today. No one wants to employ you. The crime record remains with you for many years, which minimises your chances of getting a job. Go to school to pave your way.”

He said he is currently on the lookout for a permanent job that will enable him to support his family.

“Many of us ex-offenders re-offend. Such acts come from the fact that we struggle to get employment, which can make it more difficult for us to integrate into society. This is a danger for other ex-offenders to return to crime and imprisonment,” said Bhembe.