03 Mar 2025

Selebi Phikwe Senior Secondary School (SPSS), one of the country’s cornerstones of the nation’s educational system celebrated its 50th anniversary on Saturday.

As the sun rose over the horizons of Selebi Phikwe on that particular morning, alumni, teachers, students and the community came together to celebrate the tradition of academic brilliance that influenced the lives of countless Batswana who ascended to pivotal roles in the country’s governance and judiciary. The celebration echoed throughout the school grounds.

Founded in 1973, SPSS has continuously led the way in educational innovation and integrity, producing outstanding alumni who made significant contributions in various fields.

Notable figures during the commemoration included the Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr Dithapelo Keorapetse, Chief Justice Gaolapelwe Ketlogetswe, Deputy Governor of Bank of Botswana, Mr Lesego Moseki, Minister for State President, Mr Moeti Mohwasa and the Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mr Ketlhalefile Motshegwa.

These are the prime examples of the outstanding leadership nurtured within SPSS hallowed halls. The commemoration kicked off with a parade of alumni, and speakers who reflected on the school’s path during their days, bringing back memories of the struggles endured, and victories won over the years.

Chief Justice Gaolapelwe Ketlogetswe acknowledged the importance of education in promoting leadership and responsibility. He reflected on his years at the school and shared how the principles he learned shaped his service to the nation.

Chief Justice Ketlogetswe encouraged students to keep away from drug usage and bullying one another and should aim to strive for excellence and emulate the footsteps of their predecessors. Looking back on his early years, he shared how newcomers were subjected to light-hearted teasing by being called ‘Mesela’, which was harmless and intended to create and strengthen relationships rather than causing distress to others.

He, however, asserted that bullying of any kind should not be allowed and that it is imperative that all students feel protected, respected, and cherished, Chief Justice Ketlogetswe additionally pointed out how important it is for students to be committed to their studies and endure despite difficulties.

He said doing so is a means to achieving both academic and personal growth and become responsible alumni. For his part, Mr Keorapetse also encouraged students on the need to balance academic dedication with athletic pursuits, adding that success extends beyond the classroom walls.

“While education is essential for the future, physical activities and sports are equally important in career paths, work smart and play hard, take opportunities presented that promote a well-rounded approach to personal development,” he said.

Mr Keorapetse also made a generous donation of five laptops to the school aimed at rewarding the best performing students in academic pursuits.

The school head, Mr Matome Chakalisa said though the school is performing well, more needs to be done to improve academic performance, adding that the school attained position six in the BGCSE national rankings.

He called for the maintenance of the school, saying some of the school infrastructure is old and dilapidated. SPSS has managed to remain in the Top 10 of the examination national rankings since 2020. ENDS