31 Mar 2021

 Institutions of higher learning have been commended for a job well done despite COVID-19 challenges.

Minister of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology, Dr Douglas Letsholathebe said this when updating the nation about his ministry on Botswana Television.

He said the year 2020 was a tough one, but the institutions came up with ways to forge ahead despite the pandemic.

Dr Letsholathebe said institutions continued to provide education to their students using various methods of teaching rather than having classes attended in person.

The institutions introduced teaching through the use of internet and that enabled students to continue with classes. 

He said though it was tough at the beginning, everyone adapted to the use of ICT as it enabled life to continue despite challenges experienced world-wide due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Minister Letsholathebe said those who found it difficult to cope were rescued through the issuance of sim cards, which enabled them to connect to their respective institutions.

He also applauded institutions for working well with the Botswana Qualification Authority when courses were being re-arranged to suit the new normal situation.

Regarding students sponsorship offered by the Department of Tertiary Education Financing, Dr Letsholathebe said the department would continue to sponsor students.

He also explained that government was still considering introducing a 50/50 sponsorship where parents would also contribute, adding that discussions with stakeholders on the matter had not yet been started.

Dr Letsholathebe encouraged eligible students to apply for courses of their choice and advised for those who did not perform well to work towards attaining the cut off points for admission at universities and colleges.

He also encouraged them not to fold arms, but apply to vocational and technical colleges. Ends