03 Nov 2025

Botswana has embarked on an ambitious transformation of its education agenda, shifting toward a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) based system, the Minister of Child Welfare and Basic Education, Ms Nono Kgafela-Mokoka has informed UNESCO general conference.

Making a statement at the conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on Monday, the minister said Botswana therefore looked forward to working closely with UNESCO in development of this cutting-edge curriculum that would drive the reform.

“Botswana’s education strategy, with its emphasis on digital transformation, inclusive access, lifelong learning and skills development, is aligned with UNESCO’s global mandate to promote equitable and quality education”. Minister Kgafela-Mokoka, who leads a Botswana delegation to the UNESCO general conference, thanked UNESCO Regional Office for Southern Africa (ROSA) for choosing Botswana to participate in the Tech-Spark Pilot Project through the Botswana International University of Science and Technology.

“This initiative is expected to strengthen STEAM education, enhance digital competencies and foster innovation through simulation-based learning, thereby advancing the aspirations of the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme,” the minister said.

Therefore, Botswana has expressed support for advancement of standard-setting instruments on open science, innovation and emerging issues in the technology space.

The minister reported that Botswana had successfully validated the Artificial Intelligence Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM), marking a key milestone in the country’s efforts to establish a governance and regulatory framework for the ethical development and deployment of artificial intelligence.

In addition, the Ministry of Communications and Innovation, working closely with UNESCO ROSA and national stakeholders, has advanced development of the national AI policy, Minister Kgafela-Mokoka said.

This reflected Botswana’s transition from planning to implementation in building an inclusive and sustainable AI ecosystem.

In another matter, the minister announced Botswana’s candidature for membership on the World Heritage Committee.

This would be the first time the country seeks to serve on this body, reflecting not only a national aspiration but also a regional vision rooted in collaboration, inclusivity and shared responsibility.

Members of Botswana’s delegation at the conference are expected to echo the country’s agenda as they participate in commissions on education, natural science, social and human sciences, culture as well as communication and information.

Botswana served as a member of the UNESCO executive board from 2021 to 2025.

This strengthened the country’s voice in shaping global education, science, culture and communication agendas, while also advancing the ideals of multilateral cooperation.

This year’s conference is historic as it is the first to be held outside France in nearly 40 years.

It aims to determine policies, programmes and key lines of work for UNESCO. The gathering has brought together representatives from 194 UNESCO member states, highlighting its significance on the global educational and cultural agenda. ENDS