20 May 2026

In a bid to bridge the gap between urban and remote learners, tertiary institutions across Botswana have embarked on the annual Tertiary Institutions National Roadshow aimed at bringing higher education opportunities closer to students in remote communities.

The nationwide outreach programme commenced on May 4 and is expected to conclude on May 26. 

The initiative seeks to ensure that learners from disadvantaged and far-flung areas have equal access to information regarding tertiary education, sponsorship opportunities and career guidance.

Through the outreach programme, institutions travel directly to villages and towns across Botswana to engage students and parents on various academic programmes and application procedures.

Held under the theme: Together for the Future: A One-Stop Gateway to Tertiary Education, the outreach programme emphasised collaboration among tertiary institutions in ensuring that learners across the country had easy access to information on higher education opportunities.

Speaking during the roadshow in Tsabong, the event’s coordinator, Ms Evah Mogotsi highlighted that many students in remote areas struggled to access information due to long distances from urban centres, limited Internet connectivity and financial constraints that made travelling to cities difficult. 

Therefore, she described the outreach tour as an important step toward ensuring that no learner was left behind regardless of geographical location.

The event stakeholder engagement officer, Mr Tefo Sephiri said the programme provided face-to-face interaction with institutions, allowing learners to ask questions directly and receive immediate assistance with applications and career choices.

Students, he said were also encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to explore different career paths and understand admission requirements for various institutions.

Mr Sephiri emphasised career guidance as a critical tool in helping learners make informed decisions about their future studies and professions. 

He stated that the initiative was further expected to inspire learners from disadvantaged communities by exposing them to opportunities they may have previously believed were beyond their reach.

Mr Sephiri noted that bringing institutions directly to distant areas restored hope and motivated students to work toward achieving their educational aspirations.

Mr Joshua Thebolo, the logistics coordinator advised learners, preparing to transition from secondary school to tertiary education, to begin researching career opportunities early, remain focused on their studies and seek guidance whenever necessary.

He further encouraged learners to believe in their abilities and take advantage of opportunities brought closer to their communities through initiatives such as the national roadshow. 

He highlighted that parental involvement played a crucial role in motivating students to pursue higher education and make informed decisions about their future.

Mr Thebolo further applauded parents for their commitment toward supporting their children’s academic aspirations despite challenges associated with distance and access to information. ENDS