21 Oct 2018

First Lady Neo Masisi has implored public and private institutions to encompass the spirit of compassion and caring for the less privileged members of the public as the move will increase the essence of togetherness.

Giving a keynote address at the inaugural Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fundraising dinner in Gaborone on October 19, Ms Masisi said it was a welcome development that some companies had taken it upon themselves to assist those in need.

She noted with delight that while the HRDC had a constitutional mandate to fulfil, it had equally adopted a clear and well-structured CSR initiative aiming at uplifting the lives of those less privileged in the society. 

This, she said, was demonstrated by a wide range of social corporate activities it continued to undertake throughout the country.

Ms Masisi said it was gratifying that the proceeds of the gala dinner were going to be used to construct a house for a needy member of the society, something she said would afford the beneficiary and other dependents to have a roof over their heads and subsequently restore their dignity.

In addition, she said the adoption of Malatswae Primary School by HRDC demonstrated commitment towards assisting government in its endeavours to develop education and also contribute to a knowledge-bsedf economy in Botswana.

Above all,  Ms Masisi said the numerous social activities undertaken by HRDC were fuelled by the spirit of Botho and love, which she said should be cascaded to the youth so that they grow up knowing that giving and caring for the needy was the pillar of Batswana as a nation.

Meanwhile, chief executive officer of HRDC Dr Raphael Dingalo said when he took over the institution in 2016, he made sure that he ‘"take all staff members on an imaginary trip to Utopia which was full of surprises and wonders which ultimately was translated into real life experiences’.

He therefore said through his presentation, the staff came to realise their worth and need to assist those less privileged in the society and immediately started raising funds for their various community initiatives.

Dr Dingalo noted with pride that as an esteemed institution they want to be counted among those supporting a knowledgeable worker with emotional intelligence, adding that they envisaged a happy and improved life for those whom they will assist.

In the meantime, the board chairperson of HRDC, Ms Moggie Mbaakanyi thanked all those who bought the tickets because their choice would make it possible to put a smile on the faces of the beneficiaries. 

She said their sense of compassion remained unchallenged as anchored on the principle of Botho and love.

Ms Mbaakanyi noted that as the country was moving forward to fulfil the ideals of Vision 2036, it should not forget the founding principles and anchors of Vision 2016, which among others called for a compassionate nation. ENDS