​The Gauteng Department of Social Development is committed to providing young offenders in South Africa with the opportunity to rebuild their lives within the framework of Secure Care Centres. These institutions, Including the Soshanguve Secure Centre in Tshwane, offer a structured and supportive environment for children referred by the child justice courts, either awaiting trial or serving sentences.
The focus of these centres is not merely punitive but rehabilitative, giving young offenders a second chance through programs designed to support their growth and reintegration into society. 

Under the Child Justice Act (CJA), implemented in 2010, children in conflict with the law are treated differently from adults, with their care and rehabilitation prioritized. The CJA ensures that young offenders are handled with a focus on their rights, development, and future potential, acknowledging that childhood mistakes should not define the rest of their lives. The Act was further strengthened in 2022 by increasing the minimum age of criminal capacity from 10 to 12 years, underlining the Department’s commitment to the rights and welfare of children.

One such success story is the rehabilitation program at the Soshanguve Secure Centre, where two young boys, *Kagiso and *Thabang (names changed to protect their identities), are currently being given the chance to complete their education while serving their sentences. Kagiso, a Grade 10 learner, is serving time for a crime he did not initially understand as an offense. Reflecting on his past, Kagiso shared, "I thought I was just with my girlfriend. It wasn’t until I was arrested and separated from my family that I began to understand the gravity of what I had done. I miss my family every day, but I also know that I am being given a second chance to change."

Thabang, a Grade 12 student, is using this time to plan for a brighter future, aspiring to become a pilot and a motivational speaker. “I’ve learned that you can ruin your life in minutes. Now, I want to share my story with others to help them avoid the mistakes I’ve made,” he said.

These stories highlight the critical role that Secure Care Centres play in transforming the lives of young offenders, helping them recognize the consequences of their actions while equipping them with the skills and guidance needed to move forward positively.

Statistics from the Judicial Inspectorate Correctional Services (JICS) show that the majority of children in conflict with the law are aged between 16 and 17, with crimes such as housebreaking, theft, and assault being most common. Between 2019 and 2020, there were 2,058 sentenced juveniles and 3,724 juveniles remanded in detention, further demonstrating the need for ongoing intervention and rehabilitation efforts.

The Department of Social Development, through its Secure Care Centres, remains committed to providing a nurturing, and supportive environment for young offenders. By focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment, these institutions aim to equip the affected youth with the tools they need to reintegrate into society and lead productive lives. The most effective way to prevent youth violence is by educating young people on healthy relationships, conflict resolution, and responsible decision-making, while also encouraging positive parenting practices that steer children away from harmful influences such as gangs, drugs, and alcohol.