03 Oct 2023

Empathy remains a critical aspect in connecting and supporting those faced with adversities.

This was emphasised by the Vice President, Mr Slumber Tsogwane on Friday when he visited Masunga Senior Secondary School learners, whose hostels were recently gutted by fire.

The Vice President, who visited the pupils to offer the much needed support, donated mattresses, blankets, comforters, sheets, pillows, school bags and toiletries, among others.

He urged the learners to show understanding and compassion to one another as they rebuilt their lives.

“Empathy is extremely important in a time of crisis like a fire destroying learners’ belongings because it can provide a sense of connection and support. By understanding the experiences and feelings of others, learners can build relationships and create a sense of community, even in the face of adversity,” he said.

He said empathy was a skill that could be learned and developed.

Through interactions with others, he said, learners could  learn to recognise and understand different perspectives, experiences and respond with compassion and understanding.

“By practicing empathy, learners can become more resilient and better able to cope with challenges,” he added.

Mr Tsogwane also emphasised the importance of hard work and dedication in order to achieve academic success.

He also encouraged the learners to make the most of their educational opportunities and invest in their future.

“By putting more effort and energy into your studies, you will ultimately determine your future outcomes,” he said.

For his part, Masunga SSS head, Mr Jabulani Munyere told the Vice President that the school was still awaiting a report on the cause of the fire as well as the cost of damage.

Mr Munyere said the population of the learners both at the boys and girls hostels had increased dramatically.

He said the hostels accommodated 1 252 male and female learners.

He added that the school had been receiving messages of support and comfort from the district leadership who had also donated blankets and toiletries to the affected learners.

“This shows that Batswana are indeed a compassionate society during difficult times. With these donations, the school community is now motivated and learners are now focused on their education,” Mr Munyere said. He promised Mr Tsogwane that the school would perform well in this year’s BGCSE examination despite the setback that befell the learners.

Meanwhile, both the school’s headboy and headgirl appreciated the Vice President’s gesture and promised that the donated items would be put to good use. ENDS