Taking the Ministry to the People event highlights a significant gathering hosted by the Ministry of Education and Skills Development in Tshesebe on August 24, 2023. The event, themed “Driving a Knowledge Economy through Skills Development and Mindset Change,” brought together education enthusiasts and stakeholders from all corners of the nation.
The core objectives of the event were twofold:
- Raising Awareness: The Ministry aimed to shed light on its critical role in shaping Botswana’s education landscape, ensuring everyone understood its mandate.
- Stakeholder Engagement: It provided a platform for stakeholders to interact with ministry management, offering valuable feedback to improve education in Botswana.
Ms. Miriam Maroba, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasized that the Ministry’s establishment in 2022 aimed to streamline government Ministries for seamless service delivery. The Ministry’s primary goal is to enhance the management and coordination of education throughout one’s life, equipping Batswana with skills to succeed domestically and globally.
Encouraging parental involvement in education, the Permanent Secretary stressed transformative change, innovative project management, and the importance of breaking free from limitations. She highlighted the Ministry’s collaboration with various stakeholders as crucial in the ever-evolving educational landscape.
Honourable Minister Dr. Douglas Letsholathebe highlighted the Ministry’s role in facilitating scientific discoveries and innovations. He showcased research outputs from esteemed institutions like UB, BIUST, and BUAN, including BIUST’s satellite project, UB’s Bio-Fuel Production project, and BUAN’s Agrovoltaic project.
The Minister emphasized the need for a mindset change, illustrated through tangible actions such as using local languages in early childhood education, digitalizing pedagogy, and expanding e-learning. Inclusive education, demonstrated by the Maun Centre for Learners with Severe and Multiple Disabilities, showcased the Ministry’s commitment to leaving no one behind.
In conclusion, Minister Letsholathebe thanked attendees and encouraged the Permanent Secretary’s continued exemplary work. Mr. Davis Tele, BIUST’s Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, expressed gratitude to the Ministry, highlighted BIUST’s achievements, and urged continued collaboration.
The event exemplified the power of collaboration, innovation, and a shared dedication to shaping a brighter educational future in Botswana. Together, they pave the way for a more prosperous tomorrow.Top of Form