16 Feb 2016

The Japanese government, through the Grassroots Human Security Projects Scheme, has granted Ghanzi District Council US$43 350 for the construction of a pre-school in West Hanahai.

Speaking at the grant contract signing ceremony between the Embassy of Japan and Ghanzi District Council recently, the Ambassador of Japan to Botswana, Mr Masahiro Onishi said his government values the betterment of life in rural areas.

“I am very glad that our government has this grant scheme, through which we can reach out to people in rural areas and meet their needs. We will continue to extend our assistance through this scheme in the country,” he said.

Mr Onishi noted that children were the future of Botswana and that raising a well-rounded child could only be achieved and maintained when all concerned parties work together. He said children’s readiness for primary school should be significantly improved through learning at reception class.

“I personally believe that schools mean a lot to children, especially in remote areas such as West Hanahai. This pre-school will be a place where children will see the outside world that is full of discoveries and excitement, which motivates them to be ambitious for the future,” he said.

Mr Onishi noted that in order for maximum benefits to be gained from the assistance by the people of Japan, there was need for support from ministries, councils, parents, teachers and all stakeholders in the community.
For his part, Ghanzi Council chairperson, Mr Thato Tshweneyagae expressed their gratitude on behalf of the government of Botswana and the people of West Hanahai.

He said the government has declared education as one of its top priorities, adding that the grant would aid efforts to develop its people.

“My council continues to assist the people of West Hanahai with social amenities. As you did your own assessment you must have realised that the government has made strides in the provision of services for the people of West Hanahai, but we are still far in achieving the intended improvements of lives,” he said.

Mr Tshweneyagae said the reception class come at an opportune moment as the government has just introduced early childhood education as per recommendations of the Revised National Policy on Education.

“Currently, we have one day care centre run by the Village Development Committee of West Hanahai. I can assure you that the reception class would complement this centre on the build-up for primary education,” he said.

He noted that since school drop-outs were of great concern in their district, the introduction of early education would motivate children to get used to the school environment. Mr Tshweneyagae expressed his commitment to the project and assured that it would be delivered on time. Ends