02 Jun 2021

Kgatleng District performance improvement coordinator, Ms Sesha Kontle says character building is a necessity in the lives of the youth, as they go through different challenges in their lives.

Ms Kontle, who was officiating at a two-months bootcamp organised by Botswana Institute of Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Offenders (BIRRO) in Bokaa recently, said it was crucial to develop good character so that one was mentally equipped to make wise decisions and overcome obstacles.

She said she hoped the bootcamp would equip the campers to be responsible, accountable and of good character.

Ms Kontle noted that bootcamps were intended to promote the physical, social, emotional and spiritual development of the youth, and to help them become responsible, caring and contributing members of their communities as well as productive citizens of Botswana.

For his part, BIRRO chairperson, Mr Mothei Sejakgomo explained that they hoped to yield better results as they would also engage the campers’ parents to help deal with their problems.

He said the bootcamp was aimed at combating juvenile delinquency as well as offering counselling to individuals affected by different issues in their lives.

Mr Sejakgomo said the bootcamp intended to enroll 30 youths who needed behavioural change and life-skills coaching to reshape their moral compass to what was acceptable in society.

He said through previous bootcamps a number of delinquents who were challenged by issues ranging from alcohol to substance abuse and criminal tendencies had reformed and had a fresh leap into life thereby  restoring peace and tranquility within their families at the same time.

The two months-long bootcamp was held at Ndwazi farm camping site in Bokaa under the theme: Character building: A necessity for re-integration. ENDS