13 Oct 2016

The Minister of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology Dr Alfred Madigele says research and development are essential in driving economic growth.

He said research and development also insulate the country from the negative impact of global competition.

Dr Madigele who is also the Member of Parliament for Mmathethe/Molapowabojang was addressing a kgotla meeting at Metlobo village in his constituency.

He said government split the Ministry of Education and Skills Development in pursuit of quality in education.

Dr Madigele said it was time Batswana learnt new methods that could save water and land while creating employment,noting that government would continue to adopt appropriate policies and strategies on the challenges facing the country such as unemployment and poverty, as well as an endorsement of the economic priorities of promoting growth and economic diversification.

The minister said the endorsement was in recognition of the importance of growth in increasing the national income, creating employment opportunities, and generating government revenues for redistribution through economic and social policies and programmes.

Dr Madigele said this meant that the implementation of the programmes and projects should be guided by the principles of efficiency, effectiveness and financial discipline hence the need to continuously strive for a balance between economic and social investment

He said to address the development challenges of poverty, unemployment, and income inequality, needed economic growth.

The minister also briefed the meeting about the bills passed in the last seating of parliament.

Dr Madigele also thanked Batswana for celebrating 50^th independence peacefully, noting that Batswana should reflect back and be proud about the development acquired and advised them to look forward.

For his part Southern District Council chairperson Mr Mephato Reatile said Metlobo livestock farmers were provided with water, adding that some developments were brought to a halt because of economic recession.

Residents complained about shortage of water and that the road from Mmathethe to Metlobo was in a bad state.

They wanted to be assisted with cluster and drip fences while members of Farmers Committee wanted to be paid allowances.

The administrative officer in the Member of Parliament’s office based in Mmathethe Mr Jacob Dikuelo encouraged electorates to visit his office so that they know more about its operations. ENDS