29 Aug 2023

 The University of Botswana has adopted Moralane Primary School as part of its objective to bring into fold those who are disadvantaged and most often excluded.

Adopting the school will bring hope and faith to the learners’ brighter future regardless of their unique challenges.

Speaking at the occasion of building future leaders at Moralane on Friday, Vice Chancellor of the University of Botswana Prof. David Norris, said they wanted to impart knowledge that would bring a sense of pride and mindset change as they are passionate about their nation’s future.

He stated that adopting Moralane primary school symbolise their commitment to enriching lives in all corners of Botswana.

Prof. Norris said the university has to be impactful to change people’s lives.

He said the University of Botswana under the UB Building Future Leaders programme acknowledged it’s role in moulding the young minds and ensuring that they were provided with the best resources, mentorship and opportunities.

In partnership with Lucara Botswana and Liberty they donated 400 school shoes, 400 socks, toiletries and stationery to Moralane Primary School pupils.

Lucara Botswana contributed P120 000 which was used to purchase shoes and socks for the pupils, while Liberty contributed P20 000 which was used to buy technological books and other stationery and UB donated stationary and t-shirts.

Prof. Norris said this initiative was not a once off thing but it would go beyond as they want to see Moralane pupils excelling and becoming future leaders.

He said he believed that this initiative will inspire other institutions and communities to contribute in building a better Botswana.

Giving keynote address, the Assistant Minister of Education and Skills Development, Mr Aubrey Lesaso, said the university’s  strategic intent, driven by a commitment to create societal impact and promote inclusivity, found its embodiment in the Adopt-a School Programme.

Mr Lesaso said by adopting Moralane Primary School, the university was signaling that education was not merely a pursuit of knowledge, but a bridge towards a more equitable future.

He said it was a poignant reminder that every child, deserved a chance to shine, adding that the initiative, under the UB Building Future Leaders, was not just about philanthropy, but it was about empowerment.

Mr Lesaso said the tutorials, designed to bolster young minds as they prepared for their PSLE, reflected on the nation’s potential.

The activities planned, were not just about academics. 

He added that they were about nurturing well rounded individuals, ready to take on the world.

Mr Lesaso said the university programmes was a testament to the power of unity in shaping the destiny of the country’s education landscape.

The university’s donation of hampers, abounding with teaching materials and essentials, was a symbol of a collective commitment to the young learners’ future.

Mr Lesaso said that recently the institution held an engagement in mathematics, science and robotics for the students thus preparing them for the demands of knowledge based economy.

He indicated that the university’s benevolence extended beyond the academic realm.

Mr Lesaso said the donation of shoes, socks, toiletries and stationery was a reminder that education was not just about learning, but about nurturing, supporting and fostering a sense of belonging.

He commended the University of Botswana, its leadership and partners for continuing in strength, progress and fortitude.

Kgosi Keoganne Modisapodi of Moralane expressed gratitude towards University of Botswana and partner-sponsors for remembering his village.

Kgosi Modisapodi said the donations would help the primary school pupils to perform better and looked good in their learning environment.

He encouraged learners to take care of the gifts and believed in their capabilities in order to do better and have a brighter future despite their unique challenges.

Moralane was one of the underdeveloped villages and a lot of parents could provide school essentials for their children. 

He  thanked all sponsors for stepping in and making the learning institution a better place for better future.

Kgosi Modisapodi said this initiative would help students to work hard in their studies since they were not left out, stating that the donated items would help the pupils to learn better and in an equal state of mind.

He noted  providing them with tools they needed would empower young minds would create the future for the knowledge generation. ENDS