17 Jun 2019

 Destiny Shapers, a programme initiated by the Broadcasters Organisation, has started to show results in the Palapye sub-region.

Addressing Palapye Sub-district Council meeting recently, Masupe Primary School head, Ms Pinkie Lefakae said since the introduction of the programme, the beneficiary schools experienced a dramatic turnaround. She said the programme had shaped the learners in all aspects including academics, creative arts, photography and broadcasting.

He said 17 schools in the region had benefited from the programme, with most pupils being able to build confidence through debates, beauty contests among others.

Ms Lefakae said the programme also equipped learners with presentation skills, research skills and had broadened their knowledge through quizzes and essay writing. The programme would be piloted in some secondary schools in the sub-region. 

Ms Lefakae said some of the challenges faced included lack of transport, feeding and awards, but appreciated the council and Parents Teachers Association for their support.

Earlier on, councillors were also briefed about the changes that the Ministry of Basic Education intended to implement, including admission of pupils according to their geographical locations.

Chief education officer, Ms Wananani Gunda, said zero per cent transition depended upon cut-off point that changed yearly.

She noted that previous cut off could not be used to admit pupils the following year. She said the four core subjects of English, Mathematics, Science and Setswana should all be passed and in addition to three subjects: one from general, practical and general options. She also informed councillors that when transferring a child, parents were expected to  have valid reasons followed by proof of why a child should be transferred.

Lecheng councillor, Charles Mabjeng said the Adopt-a-School Initiative was no longer serving its intended purpose, adding that it was now used for political mileage, thus appealing to the relevant authorities to look into the situation. 

Other councillors wanted to know the criteria used to select schools to benefit from the Destiny Shapers programme. ends