29 Jul 2025

Serowe College of Education faces infrastructural and administrative challenges, the Principal, Mr Johane Oletile said this when updating the Minister of Higher Education, Mr Prince Maele during the tour of the college on Monday. 

He said the college was dealing with understaffing problems, noting that there were currently 28 vacant positions. 

Mr Oletile said this was burdensome for the staff as it put strain on their work, undermining the efficiency of the college’s functions. 

He criticised delays in promotions, advancement and employee training, which he claimed were irritating and hindering productivity. 

Mr Oletile mentioned that there was lack of staff accommodation, leading to some employees renting private residences, which were costly. 

He urged the minister to build additional housing, using the land that was easily accessible on the college grounds to create more accommodations for staff. 

The principal also said that while the college provided an Early Childhood Development course, the government had not funded any student who met the sponsorship requirements.  

He encouraged the minister to look into why the government was holding back sponsorship for the course. 

Mr Oletile additionally urged the Minister to consider leasing the College’s Masama farm to generate revenue, which could be allocated toward finishing maintenance projects. 

On a positive note, he pointed out that the college successfully enrolled six international students, demonstrating that their curriculum adhered to global standards. 

Mr Oletile said they possessed a memorandum of understanding with Botswana Open University for joint initiatives, which would improve the college’s ranking. 

Student Representative Council President, Mr Nchidzi Kepaletswe requested hostel renovations, revealing that they resided in hostels that were deteriorating and an undignified condition, with toilets missing locks and showers that were not functioning properly. 

“We firmly urge the establishment of a biannual maintenance plan to be executed, not only at Serowe College of Education but also in all colleges of education.  

The repeated excuse that there is no money is no longer credible when students are required to endure such circumstances. 

The upkeep of essential facilities is neither a privilege nor an option; it is both a right and an obligation,” he stated. 

Mr Kepaletswe also advocated for the upgrading of the college’s stadium facility, transforming it into a profit generating asset that would benefit both the college and its community. 

He requested the minister to endorse and support the Seriti Programme, a student-led initiative aimed at giving back to the community, especially to underprivileged children in primary schools by providing school uniforms. 

In his remarks Mr Maele mentioned that his ministry was dedicated to accelerating the process of filling vacancies and emphasised support for the welfare of both employees and students. 

He further praised the college for attracting international interest and facilitating partnerships that would enhance the college community. 

 The minister warned against a trend of management ‘clipping wings’ of junior officers who showed talent, stating that such acts cost organisations talents that had the capacity to bring forth maximum productivity, efficiency and sustainable growth. ENDS