23 Sep 2026

Jwaneng Mine recently hosted the ninth edition of the Diamond Dream Academic Awards ceremony.

The awards ceremony recognise outstanding academic performance by learners and educators from the 2024 and 2025 examination results from 25 primary and five junior secondary schools within their area of influence. 

Established in 2017, the initiative is testament to the company’s commitment to investing in education through recognising academic excellence, as well as the role and contribution of teachers to the results.

Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Finance in the Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education, Mr Olebogeng Moipisi commended Jwaneng Mine for an impactful initiative in the education sector.

He said the initiative was aligned with the government’s objective of achieving inclusive education, as well as providing a conducive environment for collaboration with strategic partners.

“The ministry has prioritised strategic reforms that places the learner at the centre of development. These reforms are geared toward modernised teaching and learning, protecting the rights and wellbeing of every child and ensuring that no learner is left behind. 

This is also espoused in the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme (BETP), which advocates for inclusive high quality and future-ready education system which empowers each and every learner,” he noted.

Mr Moipisi further applauded educators and parents for the dedication they continued to show in improving the education sector. 

Jwaneng Mine General Manager, Mr Goitseone Gadifele said while the primary objective of the awards was to recognise excellence, they were also intended to enhance confidence among learners, challenging them to continuously improve their results. 

He also said the outcome was testament of what stakeholders could achieve when they join hands toward a common purpose.

Mr Gadifele said, as the country celebrated its 60th independence anniversary, the time was also an opportune moment for Debswana to reflect on its contribution and legacy toward socio-economic development of the country.

He said the company recognised education as a key factor in development and prosperity for the country and its people. 

“Education and skills development remain fundamental to achieving prosperity for all as we envision under Botswana’s Vision 2036, particularly as we work toward a diversified and knowledge-based economy. 

It is therefore important that we continue striking partnerships with schools, regional education offices, the Botswana Examination Council, parents, local leadership and other stakeholders to create an environment where children can thrive,” he noted.    

To date, Mr Gadifele said Debswana had invested over P7 million in the programme, in an endeavor to inspire learners to strive for success. 

In addition, he said they continue to support teacher development through Government Schools Development Programme, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics.  ENDS