23 Oct 2017

Botswana Teachers Union (BTU) members in Ngamiland have been urged to take advantage of available opportunities and venture into businesses.

BTU deputy president, Mr Gotlamang Oitsile made the plea during BTU’s mini celebrations in Maun recently.

He noted that since Ngamiland was a tourism hub, members could take advantage to start tourism businesses in an effort to prepare for their retirement.

Mr Oitsile advised them to think beyond their careers as they would have to retire.

“Prepare well in advance for your retirement so that you continue to be actively involved in the development of the country outside the education sector,” he added.

He pleaded with government to make the environment conducive for citizens to venture into businesses, adding that they often hear complaints such as business idea being stolen; business not viable and lack of support from government.

Members also learnt that their union would in future focus on membership economic advancement.

Members were also advised to utilise their business wing, More Power Investment, together with its business partners’ services and products.

Mr Oitsile noted that they could also acquire information from them for their personnel development both professionally and economically. He also urged members to use their time and distance learning institutions such as BOCODOL to upgrade their qualifications.

On other issues, members were advised to exercise healthy living in order to prevent health problems and developing diseases.

Mr Oitsile encouraged them to drink a lot of water to control the unbearable heat against their bodies as it was explained by health experts that bodies use more water in all cells, organs and tissues to help regulate its temperature and maintain other bodily functions.

He said because the body loses water, it was advisable to rehydrate by drinking fluids and eating foods that contain water, adding that people lose a lot of water through sweating due to heat conditions, Ngamiland region being the worst in high temperatures.

Mr Oitsile announced that since the beginning of the year, the union lost 40 members and urged fellow members to take care of their welfare and ensure they exercise regularly.

He also stressed the need to remember and recognise the significant role played by the departed members.

For her part, North West region deputy director, Ms Didimalang Memo called on teachers to venture into businesses to complement their salaries.

She said the government encouraged employees to engage in private businesses, but stated that it should not compromise nor affect service delivery to the public. ENDS