26 Feb 2024

Batswana have been implored to dispel misconceptions and appreciate the true value of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Minister of Education and Skills Development, Dr Douglas Letsholathebe made the call at the joint TVET providers’ graduation in Gaborone recently.

Dr Letsholathebe said there had been a prevailing misconception regarding the value and role of vocational education.

“Some have mistakenly perceived TVET as a lesser path compared to traditional academic pursuits. The misperception has hindered the realization of the full potential of vocational education in Botswana. Let us challenge the lingering stereotypes and biases that have unfairly diminished the perception of vocational education,” he said.

Instead, he said, Batswana should embrace a fresh perspective, ‘one that acknowledges that our hands, our skills, and our innovative spirit constitute the very building blocks of Botswana’s future prosperity’.

He therefore urged Batswana to change their perspective and embrace work and innovation as well as to believe in their children.

He further urged the nation to recognise the diverse talents and skills and give graduates a chance to be employed so as to showcase their skills, grow the industry and contribute to the country’s economy.

“Graduands, let us remember that our hands hold the power to transform our own lives and the destiny of our beloved nation. Practice what you have studied,” said Dr Letsholathebe.

The graduation ceremony was held under the theme, TVET Transformation: Unleashing Youth Potential in the Era of Mindset Change.

Dr Letsholathebe said TVET transformation referred to improving the effectiveness of vocational education and training to better match the requirements of the industry.

He said the theme resonated well with the Botswana’s Vision 2036 which advocated for a productive, internationally competitive and creative work force.

He added that TVET transformation promoted a knowledge-based economy, which promotes the use of science, technology, social, economic and business spheres to enhance the benefits of efficiency.

The minister congratulated the 1987 Class of 2023 certificate and diploma graduates from the 32 brigades and eight technical colleges.

Among them were eight best overall performers who each received P6 000 while the other best performers were awarded P5 000 each to help kickstart their businesses.

He further hailed all graduates for their hard work, perseverance and an unwavering commitment to their studies as well as other participants and the entire public TVET institutions and community for their outstanding contribution to vocational education in Botswana.

He urged them to continue to define talent, nurture Botswana’s future through TVET and remain steadfast in the commitment to excellence, innovation and collaboration.

Meanwhile, Dr Letsholathebe said the ministry was reviewing TVET curricula that was aligned to the National Credit Qualification Framework, something he said would address skills mismatch and allow seamless transition from TVET to tertiary. Ends