06 May 2014

There is need to make technical and vocational education training (TVET) an inclusive part of the education system.

Addressing technical trainers and experts in Oodi on May 5, the overseer of education and training sector strategic plan, Dr Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi said TVET should not be an extra to the academics as was the case.

Dr Venson-Moitoi informed the technical trainers that Botswana was doing well in the Better Education for Africa’s Rise (BEAR) project at 85 per cent.

BEAR is a tripartite partnership between Botswana, scientific and cultural organisation (UNESCO) and the republic of Korea aimed at upgrading TVET curriculum in Botswana and four other countries.

Minister Venson Moitoi appealed to vocational trainers to assist her since they had the expertise necessary to fuse TVET and academics and in the implementation of the initiative.

Dr Venson-Moitoi said there was stigma around technical and vocational education such that it was seen as only resort for students who performed badly and could not be admitted at universities. However, she said, technical education training should be by choice, as not everyone could follow academics.

On that note, Dr Venson-Moitoi said it was imperative to undertake public awareness for parents and students as well as the trainers themselves. She added trainers should not be shocked when receiving applications from students who excelled in their secondary school examinations.

The TVET trainers from across the country who attended the event welcomed the development saying it was necessary to revive TVET.

Ms Linda Moseki from Botswana Institute of Engineers (BIE) said they were happy about the initiative and hoped it would be implemented to revitalise TVET, adding that they were ready to give necessary support from the BIE. ENDS