25 Mar 2025

President Advocate Duma Boko has emphasised the need for radical reforms in Botswana’s education system . The President was speaking at the Botswana Examinations Council’s 1^5th Annual Excellence Awards held in Gaborone yesterday. 

President Boko asserted that a fundamental shift in approach was necessary to integrate skills into the mainstream curriculum and acknowledge the inherent talents of every student.

Drawing comparisons with international educational standards, President Boko said, ‘Chinese are teaching coding and AI at age six. What are we teaching at Standard 1? How do we fare in comparison to those we are competing against globally? If we aim to compete, we must adopt a radically different approach.'

He criticised the current system’s tendency to label certain students as failures, arguing that such labels reflected the education system’s inability to recognise and nurture the diverse talents of learners. 

“When education serves its purpose, it must identify and develop the skills and talents in every child,” President Boko said.

He shared a compelling example of success, referencing global soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo. “I do not know what level of education Cristiano Ronaldo has; it really does not matter. He is a genius in his vocation, armed with skill and discipline. His success is a testament to the power of talent, not just academic achievement," he stated

The President acknowledged the challenges facing the education system, describing it as being in ‘shambles’, and called for a concerted investment of energy and resources to revamp the system in a radical manner. He warned that failing to do so would further entrench poverty, isolating and disadvantaging future generations.

“All of us are called upon to reimagine this country,” Boko urged, emphasising the need for rigorous examination of institutions and practices. “We must scrutinise whether these are suited to achieving the reimagined Botswana.”

In a bold move aimed at better supporting the education sector, President Boko announced plans to reshuffle his cabinet to create the position of Assistant Minister of Child Welfare and Basic Education. This change, he said was intended to address the comprehensive needs within the large scope of child welfare and education.

Minister of Child Welfare and Basic Education, Ms Nono Kgafela-Mokoka, echoed the President’s sentiments, expressing gratitude for the support of parents in nurturing their children. “A child who grows well learns well,” she stated, reinforcing the importance of parental involvement in fostering responsible and law-abiding citizens. 

She urged parents to continue their essential role in supporting their children’s education, saying, “Continue to bear this torch. Do not be influenced by anything that may work against your future progress and success.”

The awards were presented to 2023 outstanding performers in the Primary School Leaving Examinations (PSLE), Junior Certificate Examinations (JCE), and Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) and Special Education.

President Boko presented former Mater Spei College learner with Golden Star Award.  She is the first female recipient of the award having attained 10A* and 1B. ENDS