15 Mar 2016

Deputy permanent secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs Mr Montshiwa Montshiwa has implored interns, graduate volunteers and Tirelo Sechaba participants (TSPs) to know who they are to achieve success in life.

Officiating at a one day youth forum hosted for this cadre serving under his ministry last Thursday at Tlotlo Hotel and Conference Centre in Gaborone, Mr Montshiwa noted that it was disheartening that some of the youthful charges are not taking their work seriously.

He encouraged them to use the opportunity to prove themselves so that they motivate for full employment.

He nevertheless appreciated the contribution of the cohort to the overall performance of the ministry.  

Mr Montshiwa, who narrated his personal journey to the apex of the public service, advised them not to waste time on socialising with people who have no purpose in life.

He said since his ministry is undergoing some major reforms, which include a massive drive to fill up some existing vacancies to improve on service delivery, they have taken a deliberate decision to employ some of the interns who have shown potential to deliver value.

Mr Montshiwa said it has come to the realisation of the ministry that some of the interns are doing a sterling job and have to be given an opportunity to further prove themselves.

He said the ministry can no longer afford to profoundly invest in the cadre, some of whom are university graduates, and later dump them without putting their experience and intuitive skills to optimum societal gain.

At the moment, the ministry has 158 vacancies which would be filled through promotions and employment of interns, TSPs and volunteers.

Mr Montshiwa said already 11 interns have been considered to fill some posts at entry level.

“Today’s move is a major recruitment drive the ministry has ever undertaken to employ this group at a large scale and I hope that it will sail well,” he said over a telephone interview with BOPA afterwards.

The Thursday youth forum focused on enlightening the youth on issues pertaining to self-empowerment, development of leadership skills and self-realisation skills that can mould them for success. It further raised awareness on business opportunities that exist in Botswana. Ends