04 Jul 2023

Orange Botswana’s commitment to fostering technology, innovation and digitlisation is a significant step toward empowering young people and driving digital transformation in society, says the Mayor of Gaborone City Council Mr Austin Abraham.

Speaking during the Orange Digital Centre (ODC) inaugural graduation ceremony in Gaborone recently, Mr Abraham said efforts by Orange Botswana would bridge the digitization divide as technology had become an integral part of daily life activities.

“The ODC has played a crucial role in bridging the digital divide and providing the youth with the tools they need to flourish in the digital world through its comprehensive programmes and cutting-edge facilities. 

This has created prospects for social and economic advancement, among others, he noted.

Orange Botswana’s ODC programmes are in line with the government strategy to empower and educate the youth through the provision of better access to technology through the Education and Training Sector Strategic Plan (ETSSP). 

A total of 150 students signed up and completed several courses, including programming basics, 3D printing, laser cutting, and digital embroidery, among others.

Mr Abraham, therefore, advised graduates to embrace collaboration, seek mentorship, and be resilient in the face of adversity. 

In terms of overall performance, Kesego Mojelane won the award for best student in digital embroidery, while Jamie Anderson won the award for best student in laser cutting.

Orange Botswana Director of Corporate Affairs and Chief Compliance Officer Ms Lepata Mafa-Nthomola said the graduates should see themselves as change agents that promote digital inclusiveness, serve as role models for others, and work to leave a lasting impression on their digital experiences.

She said, Orange Botswana had offered free ICT and entrepreneurship training to over 200 young Batswana, with the majority as those who have trained in ICT.BOPA