09 May 2016

An Informed and educated citizen can make better and responsible decisions in life, says Lobatse Town Council deputy mayor Mr Francis Mokwena.

He was officiating at  Southern Region, BOT50 celebrations of the vision 2016 pillar ‘An Educated and Informed Nation’ in Lobatse recently.

Mr Mokwena said education was important in that life revolved around it adding that when one was not educated ended up missing up and lacking behind on most important life issues.

He said the pillar was a very strong one in developing all individuals since the nation was undergoing preparations to celebrate 50 years of independence. He urged the public to take the pillar seriously and carry it beyond 2016.

Mr Mokwena however said illiteracy was still a concern despite the available government programmes to enable Batswana to learn, adding that the society should work hand in hand with government to address the issue and encourage those who have not attained any education to get informed.

Furthermore, Mr Mokwena said the quality of education in Botswana was not very satisfactory, urging all stakeholders to do their part in improving it to meet and fulfill the country’s vision.

He encouraged students to study hard and take their school work seriously by making time for their studies in order to have a better future. 

He said the day was also an opportunity to share ideas and network to better improve the state of education.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, Motswedi Kgosi Pepukani Makambe said there were limitations in life where there was no access to education, adding that as such it was vital to celebrate the pillar, as a pillar of life. 

He encouraged students to look up to their teachers as their mentors and follow in their footsteps in order to succeed in life, adding that the future lies in their hands.

For his part, a representative from Bothakga Primary School Mr Samuel Monakwane said pupils with disabilities needed education just like any other, adding that it was for that reason that the school has a special unit that caters for learners with special needs.

He said the school had enrolled 34 learners with different disabilities and has two permanent teachers, one temporary, two care takers and a teacher aide just for these students. 

Mr Monakwane said the pupils with disabilities were doing very well, giving an example of one girl child Rethabile Chaba who was born limbless.

 He noted that however, Ms Chaba’s disability was not hampering her normal functioning in any way.

He said Ms Chaba was performing tremendously well thus realising her full potential, adding that they were thankful to Lions Club which secured a sponsor to purchase her some devices such as an assistive computer, adjustable standard table, a raised toilet seat and a rubber ribbing. He said the girl’s future is bright as she is doing quite well.

For his part, Assistant Deputy District Commissioner Mr Ronald Masole said teachers have a huge task at hand, adding that despite the challenges faced, there was a notable progress in their work as the nation was receiving education.

Mr Masole said however, there was still a concern regarding the  drop in students’ performances due to lack of seriousness in their studies. 

He urged students to concentrate more in their school work to improve their results. ENDS