03 Dec 2024

Assistant Minister of Higher Education, Mr Justin Hunyepa has  emphasised  the importance of education.

Officiating at the graduation ceremony of Botswana Accountancy College over the weekend, he urged the graduating class to become agents of transformation. 

He said the national anthem embodies the heritage and commitment to investing in human resources for the country’s development, adding that the graduation signified both an ending and a new beginning, positioning the graduates to influence Botswana’s economy positively.

He said they are bound to  encounter challenges, the graduates should maintain hope and help to create a prosperous Botswana.

He said the skills gained during their education would enable graduates to tackle critical issues such as unemployment, inequality, and climate change. Mr Hunyepa highlighted the importance of adaptability in a world characterised by frequent disruptions and change as he urged thye graduating class to be proactive change-makers rather than passive responders to challenges.

He said government was committed to aligning education with job market needs to foster sustainable development, particularly in relation to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

He conveyed that the Class of 2024 carried the hopes of the nation and was expected to lead with boldness, innovation, and resilience as they step into the future.

BAC Executive Director, Ms Serty Leburu, said the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2024 celebrates the enduring value of education while encouraging graduates to use their knowledge for the betterment of society and the economy.

She said the ceremony emphasised the importance of education as an irreplaceable inheritance that empowers individuals and transforms communities. She said graduates were urged to share their knowledge and skills to create opportunities for others, highlighting the theme that “Knowledge, When Shared, is Power.”

 “BAC encourages graduates to adopt lifelong learning to stay relevant in an ever-evolving global landscape shaped by diverse forces,” she stated.

She expressed aspirations for BAC to transition from a college to a full-fledged university, emphasising the need for governmental support in this endeavour. 

Ms Leburu said collaborations with industry partners enhanced the education BAC provides, equipping graduates with the skills needed for success in the workforce.

She encouraged the Class of 2024 to embrace their legacy of excellence and to make a positive impact in their communities. Ends