Botswana Training Authority (BOTA) this week celebrated 10 years of up-skilling Batswana by sharing with Old Naledi residents and Tshwaragano Primary school the history of its achievements and the challenges faced by the vocational training system.
BOTA celebrated its 10th anniversary by planting trees at Tshwaragano Primary school in Gaborone.
Speaking at the celebration, BOTA CEO, Abel Modungwa, said BOTA has covered most parts of the country, educating people on vocational training as well as celebrating 10 years of existence.
”Tree planting shows unity between BOTA and Old Naledi community and our roots will be left in this school as the plants will strengthen our friendship,” said Modungwa.
He stated that it was not BOTA’s first visit to the area, and highlighted the previous trip last year when books and computers were donated. He said the celebration and donation handover is part of their corporate social responsibility.
“Revisiting the school, which is part of their previous community service initiative, the tree planting is being used as an opportunity to go back and check on the school and how it has been faring since their last visit,” said Modungwa.
On his part, guest speaker, Stanbic Bank Head of Public Sector, Scholar Puso, said the celebration is along Vision 2016 pillar of an informed and educated nation.
He stated that computers are necessary in the learning process of students. He said Stanbic Bank had also donated over 100 educational materials to both Ministry of Education and Skills Development and Ministry of Local Government last year.
“It is a day to be remembered with pride and a day to grow educationally,” said Puso. He urged students to also take art seriously as it is a skill that can diversify the economy and afford one to earn a living.
In addition to the tree planting, BOTA donated to the school through art competition for the students which was a way of honing their skills and encouraging them to take their natural talents seriously.
In the art competitions, the 1st position went to Standard Five pupil, Kago Ramosesame; position two went to Rapula Mokgethisi from Standard Six and the 3rd position went to Kgotso Malefo also Standard Six.
Old Naledi South Counselor Ntebaleng Modise thanked BOTA’s corporate social responsibility drive. She told the students to have the spirit of competition amongst themselves and own the responsibility to upgrade themselves. She also encouraged parents to participate and interact with teachers for possible ways of upholding discipline in schools.
