16 Jun 2021

Jwaneng/Mabutsane MP, Mr Mephato Reatile, has advised the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology to undertake a public private partnership at the Tonota College of Education Milk Parlour Project. 

Mr Reatile, who is a member of the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee, was speaking during a committee meeting on Tuesday.

 He urged the ministry to stick to the initial plan of keeping cattle instead of the proposed small stock. 

He expressed concern that government had injected a lot of money into the project, but it was not bringing the desired returns.

Mr Reatile said a partnership would boost the project and the ministry would benefit because the property would be leased and also serve as a fruitful agricultural platform for students at the college.

Permanent secretary in the Ministry of Tertiary Education Research, Science, and Technology, Professor Nelson Torto, had reported that due to unavailability of grass, accommodating cattle at the college would be a challenge, hence the suggestion to keep small stock for the project.

In response to the PS’ presentation, Francistown South MP, Mr Wynter Mmolotsi suggested that agricultural experts be consulted for guidance, adding that their advice and the use of conventional farming methods would boost the project.  ENDS