29 Jul 2014

Hundreds of philanthropists and fitness fanatics braced the chilly morning of July 26 to be part of the Desert Bush Walk from Jwaneng to Sese.

Categorised by the 10km and 25km loops, the walk was part of a fundraising plan to construct a learning centre and library at Sese Primary School. The idea was a brainchild of two young people, Archibald Ngakayagae and a peace corp, Amy Benson.

Speaking after the walk, Ngakayagae said they were grateful to all the companies and individuals who supported the initiative through sponsorships, pledges as well as participating in the walk. He said their contribution would go a long way in making an impact in the lives of the Sese community through education improvement.

Furthermore, Ngakayagae said the walk was part of a greater plan for fundraising, saying more support from companies and individuals was still welcome. He explained that the initiative came about after they identified the need for a conducive learning centre at the school.

“We realised that Sese Primary School has more than 800 pupils, some of whom are taught from under trees due to shortage of classrooms. The situation is not conducive because these pupils are exposed to harsh weather conditions,” he said.

He stated that the idea intended to support the Vision 2016’s pillars of “A Compassionate and Caring Nation and An Educated and Informed Nation”, as well as the government’s Adopt a School initiative. For his part, one of the sponsors, Stanbic Bank Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr Leina Gabaraane said promoting education was the best investment which his bank was proud to be part of.

“We wanted to support this initiative because as a bank we want to leave a legacy within the communities we work with. We want to see prosperity in the lives of these people,” he said.

He urged Batswana to desist from the individualistic mentality and strive to make a difference in the lives of others. This spirit, he said, could go a long way in developing Botswana and improving the lives of the people. ENDS