29 Jul 2019

Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) election officer based in Francistown, Ms Matshediso Gabana has appealed to University of Botswana students who were attached to the commission not to despair because of lack of employment once they complete their studies.

Instead, she encouraged them to utililise government programmes such as the Youth Development Fund (YDF) to uplift their lives.

“Unemployment is very high in Botswana, but don’t despair because there are government programmes and policies geared towards the youth which you can use and earn a living,” she said.

Ms Gabana was speaking during a farewell session for the interns, Tshireletso Radikeledi, Mojaboswa Tshireletso, Thuo Ditsele, and Amandla Mabengano whose two-month attachment at IEC had come to an end.

Principal election officer, Mr Nyanga Nyanga commended them for a sterling job during the rigorous voter registration exercise.

Mr Nyanga said they had been a blessing to the Francistown office and had helped to ensure that the voters’ roll inspection and objections process went smoothly.

He also said the recruitment of staff to be engaged during elections would not have been easy without their assistance.

“Over and above, you were very useful in all different units including accounts and administration, procurement and records management. I have also noted that you went a step further in assisting with messenger duties, switchboard operation and even cleaning at times,” he said.

Mr Nyanga said the students familiarised themselves with the three constituencies, 19 polling districts and 74 polling stations under the Francistown IEC Regional Office, to ensure improved service delivery.

“I want to commend you for living the values of accountability, productivity, independence, impartiality, professionalism, commitment, transparency and Botho,” he said, noting that he was touched by the way they carried themselves and encouraged them to continue in with the same attitude.

Meanwhile, the students said they felt welcomed during their stay at the commission and were part of the team.

They said unlike in other departments where attachés are sent to run minor errands, such was not the case with them. Ends