05 Jun 2025

Participants attending the communication strategy validation workshop have been urged to reflect on the transformational role that communication must play in delivering the core mandate of the Ministry of Higher Education.

Speaking at the opening of the workshop in Palapye on Tuesday, the minister,  Mr Prince Maele advised that communication was no longer merely a transmission of information hence the need for it to be proactive, purposeful, and aligned with the strategic objectives.

“It is our duty, as a ministry, to communicate in ways that build trust, invite participation, demonstrate impact as we remain open minded and receptive,’’he said.

The minister told participants who included senior officials, public relations professionals and communication experts from the ministry’s  departments and parastatals that government passionately believed that one of the cornerstones of inclusive growth was to have an educated nation.

He further said the country was on a journey of national transformation and the priorities articulated in the UDC Manifesto and the national development frameworks called for bold reforms and an engaged citizenry. 

He noted that with development of strategic communication systems, effective strategies for communications were viewed as critical organisational management tool.

He said a critical area where this strategic approach was urgently needed was in the revitalisation of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

For too long, he said, TVET had been misunderstood and under-appreciated yet it was known that it held the key to unlocking and developing employment opportunities and entrepreneurial potential. He, therefore, said communication efforts must aim to reshape public perception, instill pride in vocational training pathways, and highlight the success stories of TVET graduates who were contributing meaningfully to society. 

He said education was key to a knowledge-based economy and therefore power of effective communication must be harnessed. 

“This is not only necessary but inevitable in today’s interconnected global landscape. Communication is like a bridge that connects nations, it allows us to share knowledge, exchange expertise, and create solutions to complex challenges and make the world a better place to live in,’’ he said.

Chief Executive Officer of Morupule Coal Mine, Mr Edwin Elian said the work of PR professionals was not merely about issuing statements or managing social media but it is about nation-building. 

“You are the stewards of Botswana’s story, especially in the education sector, where the stakes are high, the scrutiny is sharp, and the future is being shaped every single day,’ he said.

He said the PR professionals were the voice that highlighted innovation, demystified policy and celebrated progress.

He challenged them to bring institutions to life with behind-the-scenes human stories of educators. ENDS