18 Jul 2023

A re chencheng bo tholi, nako di a re sia,’ goes the late folklore singer Ratsie Setlhako’s famous song.

The lyrics cannot be more relevant than now when President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi’s Reset Agenda calls for mindset change, among other things.

To buttress his crusade for change, President Masisi will tomorrow launch the national mindset change campaign in Zutshwa, Kgalagadi North.

The campaign is aimed at driving transformation and fostering a collective shift in attitudes and perspectives.
Recognizing the crucial role that mindset played in shaping individual actions and societal outcomes, the campaign also calls for the ‘reset’ of mindsets of Batswana and residents in pursuit of the country’s economic transformation.

Based on the national drive for change, BOPA went out to get some Batswana’s thoughts on the initiative.

Among those interviewed, the general consensus is that mindset change is crucial because it can transform the society.

According to Ms Alicia Gabaitse of Gaborone, mindset change could help boost the economy.

“To me, mindset change is changing the way we used to do things. For instance, we rely on government to create jobs and if we change our mindset, we should now be going into business and creating jobs for our fellow Batswana,” she noted.

Mr Sydney Moruakgomo said mindset change was a powerful tool for personal growth and development, adding it allowed individuals to approach challenges with a new perspective and openness to change.

Mr Basimane Koloi from Mogoditshane said outdated ideas and methods had prevented Batswana from moving forward.

He said innovation, entrepreneurship and a culture of lifelong learning could be promoted by this approach and in turn increase patriotism amongst Batswana.

Mr Kuda Bothoko in Gaborone said mindset change should start with education.  “I think education is where a shift in mentality begins and we can create a more inclusive and progressive society if we can teach children to think critically, be open-minded, and welcome diversity, “he noted.

Ms Maungo Olebile in Tlokweng had mixed emotions regarding the national mindset change campaign.  “I have conflicting emotions. I respect the motivation and desire to effect constructive change. However, I believe it is crucial to make sure the campaign is carried out well and reaches all people,” she said.

She said mindset change took time and involved comprehensive measures such as education and community engagement.

“The campaign must be inclusive, taking into account different points of view, and addressing the unique difficulties experienced by various societal groups,” she explained. Ends