18 Sep 2016

US peace-corps movement has played a crucial role in fostering peace and unity all which contributed to development and Botswana’s success thus far, Minister of Basic Education Dr Unity Dow has said.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony of 78 US Peace Corps in Molepolole on October 13, he said the belief in democratic ideals of the two countries is also espoused in the national anthems which preach togetherness and unity in diversity.
She said the Peace Corps movement through efforts of graduates could help fashion the new world order and spread message of peace such that their stay in Botswana should change lives for the better.
Dr Dow said their being in Botswana was part of cultural exchange thereby challenging one to always question why certain things are done in a certain way.
“Respecting others’ culture is not about accepting things without asking. For example, you should ask why during rituals/celebrations in Botswana, women sit on the ground whilst men are given chairs.
Also question why only women and few men attend Parents Teachers Associations, and in that way you will come out of here having leant a lot,” she said.
She however told graduates about challenges that lie ahead when posted to new stations some of which will be in rural areas where Internet connectivity or Wi-Fi is not available.
 She said as youth it may be difficult to cope in such situations because they have been exposed to the world of technology.
For his part American ambassador Mr Earl Miller said everywhere he travelled in Botswana he met people telling how the Peace Corps Volunteer Movement influenced their lives for the better.
“Former presidents, senior government ministers, health workers, students of all ages, talk of their extraordinary positive and joyful experiences with peace corps volunteers,” he said.
He said since 1966 over 2 500 volunteers who have lived and worked across in Botswana have left a remarkable legacy, which have seen them being celebrated during the 50th celebrations with an exhibit at the National Museum in Gaborone.
Mr Miller encouraged volunteers to go out to serve in honor the movement pioneer Robert Kennedy, and work to spread peace the world over.
He said the world demands the quality of volunteers who can make a difference.
Permanent secretary in the Ministry of Basic Education Ms Grace Muzila said it was fitting for volunteers to receive a warm welcome by residents in Molepolole because of the valuable input the movement has impacted on the country’s development.
She said the volunteers have been taken through the Setswana cultural norms and values, because Batswana value US/Botswana partnerships which have seen through development of Botswana.
“Botswana is a peaceful upper middle income country and is proud of partnership which has contributed to development and peace the nation cherish. Hope by now the training you went through have prepared you for cultural shock. You should learn the culture and join Batswana in their cultural festivities and rituals,” he said. ENDS