11 Sep 2016

In recognition of Botswana’s 50 years of independence, Manitobas University of Botswana’s Social Work class of 1995, last week sacrificed 50 minutes of their time with children at Botswana Association for Psychosocial Rehabilitation (BAPR) in Lobatse.
The social work group’s move was in respect of the recently launched ‘50 minutes’ campaign led by the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) in partnership with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural development (MLGRD).
The 50 minutes campaign is an appeal to communities to dedicate 50 minutes of their time to engage in acts of kindness that directly benefits children other than their own.
Speaking during the group’s special visit, Pastor Seipatiki Moremi encouraged societies to build strong communities that are not too dependent on government to ensure safe and supportive environment for vulnerable children in the country.
He said vulnerable children should be given the opportunity to enjoy life just like any other children for them to live dignified lives.
In her welcome remarks, BAPR representative, Ms Tshegofatso Sekai lauded the hosts for their generosity, saying their centre was taking care of more than 200 Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC’s).
She said since they were operating a non-governmental organisation, they relied on services provided by the donors and the business community to improve the quality of life for OVC’s.
As such, she pleaded with both the civil society and the private sector to play a role in this initiative.
The objective of the day, said Manitobas representative, Mr David Kanje, was to inspire and share with the children life experiences and equip them with life skills to empower them to have a good sense of belonging.
The children were treated to a wide array of games such as football, koi and vocal music. ENDS