09 Sep 2019

Lobatse Senior Secondary School (LOBSEC) head, Mr Patrick Phiri, says the school intends to improve its performance in Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) examinations.

LOBSEC attained position eight in BGCSE examinations last year from 34 senior secondary schools. They scored a 25.5 per cent credit pass rate.

Mr Phiri, who was speaking during the school’s prize awarding ceremony on September 6, said their target was to be among the top two.

“On many occasions we have been among the top 10 schools. Last year we were number eight, and this year we have agreed as a school to lower that position to number two,” said the school head.

He pointed out that LOBSEC also wanted to continue being successful in core-curricular activities. The school amassed over eight trophies in sports and other inter- school competitions this year.

“If we continue to perform well and produce good results, chances are that our products are going to be very productive citizens in the near future,” he said.

The school head, however, pointed out that LOBSEC, like other schools, had a challenge of pupils’ indiscipline.

“This year alone we had six cases of pregnancies compared to over 20 last year. It shows that we are doing something right to fight indiscipline,” he said.

Mr Phiri also said the boy child indiscipline remained a headache. This year, he said, the school suspended a total of 17 boys for offences such as stealing and drinking alcohol.

Acting chief executive officer of Botswana Meat Commission (BMC), Dr Boitumelo Mogome-Maseko, told pupils that discipline was foundation for academic success.

Dr Mogome-Maseko, who was a guest of honour, urged pupils to be obedient and exercise self-control to avoid indulging in things that would affect their studies in a negative way.

“It is worrisome to hear that last year nine female pupils wrote their examinations while pregnant. This situation if not addressed will breed a generation of irresponsible citizens. I challenge all of you to maintain discipline for academic excellence.

I encourage you to control your thoughts and emotions because indiscipline will cost you dearly,” she said.

She also urged parents and the society to help teachers instil proper moral values in young people.

Pupils were awarded prizes in various categories. The categories included academic excellence awards to best performing students in different subjects, and excellence awards to top 10 academically performing students. ENDS