26 Apr 2017

Botswana will be hosting the International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) next December.
Speaking during the official launch of IJSO on Friday, Minister of Basic Education, Dr Unity Dow said the olympiad was a celebration of science, promoting the understanding and interaction with science at developmental basic stages.
Dr Dow mentioned that the olympiad engaged youth aged 15 years and below, adding, that was indeed grassroots development of future scientists.

She pointed out that the annual international event aimed to promote and reward the pursuit of excellence in scientific endeavour as well as to challenge, stimulate and encourage gifted students to further develop their talents in natural sciences.
The minister stated that the event aimed to create friendship and relationships among students around the world from an early age.
Dr Dow therefore pointed out that the IJSO fostered collaboration across the globe, in promoting the understanding and setting a firm foundation for scientific disciplines.

She said the gathering of young scientists through the IJSO also accorded Botswana the opportunity to compare syllabi and educational trends in science education globally.
She therefore declared Botswana’s wish to take that bold step to make sure that basic education was put to the test, amongst the best.
The minister applauded Botswana young scientists for winning medals at those international events, thereby putting Botswana and her education system at the highest levels.
She said the IJSO ‘tests these young bright minds’ in Physics, Biology, Chemistry and offers them an opportunity to contribute to Botswana’s scientific and technological needs’.
Dr Dow commended IJSO for promoting participation of gifted students from an early age, saying it did not only build excellence in science, but would be building future careers, which were key engines of sustainable development endeavours of Botswana’s economy. ENDS