22 Aug 2024

The Japanese Embassy announced the Government of Japan grant worth over P825 000 for the construction of a pre-primary school unit under the scheme Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Project (GGP).

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of the project at Nkoyaphiri Primary School in Mogoditshane on Wednesday, the Ambassador of Japan to Botswana, His Excellency Setsuo Ohmori said the event marked another milestone as it signified the continued partnership the embassy had with various educational institutions to ensure provision of quality education in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG) .

He said the outcome target of SGD 4 (quality education) was to ensure equal access to quality pre-primary education, hence the importance of the project.

Ambassador Ohmori said the project provided the school with an opportunity to ensure equal access to quality primary education.

“I believe the donation will ensure that no student is left behind due to limitation of resources, ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote life-long learning.”

Mr Ohmori further said he had learnt that Nkoyaphiri Primary School upheld education as the cornerstone of progress, development and empowerment and also a key that unlocked doors of opportunities and paved a way for a brighter future.

He added that the GGP project involved the construction of school building, with two classes, a sick bay, a kitchen, child-friendly bathrooms and offices for teachers.

Ambassador Ohmori expressed hope that the 32 learners would have opportunities to continuously receive proper learning and be able to study in a safe and comfortable environment.

He urged all stakeholders to pledge to uphold the values of education and equitable opportunity for learning, and commit to ensuring that every child regardless of their background had the chance to fulfil their potential and pursue their dreams.

“This generous donation made today by the government of Japan will not only build a physical infrastructure, but will also build hope, aspirations and dreams,” said Ambassador Ohmori.

Ambassador Ohmori expressed hope that the pre-primary education unit would stand as proof of the continued friendship and cooperation between Botswana and Japan.

The director of Apexta Group, Mr Ontlametse Medupi, who has been contracted to build the unit, promised to complete the building on schedule.

He said his company was committed to the contractual agreement and would continue to work in collaboration with other stakeholders involved in the process of construction.

Mr Medupi promised to follow all safety protocols to safeguard the lives of pupils. He thanked the council for trusting him to deliver the project.

In his welcome remarks, Kgosi Prince Dihutso of Mogoditshane said the project came at the right time when the school was experiencing shortage of classrooms, especially in view of harsh weather conditions that render outdoor teaching a challenge.

When giving a vote of thanks, Member of Parliament for Mogoditshane and also Minister of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture, Honourable Tumiso Rakgare said the donation came at the right time when the population of Mogoditshane had grown.

He said the move would, therefore, address shortage of classrooms at the school.

Mr Rakgare thanked the government of Japan for the generous donation, adding that the gesture continued to solidify good relations that the two countries had.

He said he was happy that the development came to Mogoditshane though the community almost lost it due to some delays experienced.

Mr Rakgare concluded by asking the contractor to fulfil his promise of delivering the project on time and budget. ENDS