The Ministry of Higher Education in collaboration with the University of Botswana (UB), hosted the 15th Combined Graduation Ceremony for affiliated institutions, celebrating the achievements of 1,212 graduates.
Held under the theme “Navigating the Future: Building Trust, Excellence, Innovation and Integrity in Higher Education,” the ceremony saw graduates from three key sectors conferred with diplomas, thus 421 from Colleges of Education, 531 from Health Training Institutions and 260 from Technical Colleges.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Higher Education, Honourable Prince Maele, emphasised the importance of character, resilience and adaptability in navigating the realities of life after graduation. He urged graduates to take advantage of development programmes and entrepreneurial initiatives designed to equip them to make meaningful contributions to Botswana’s economy.
Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Higher Education, Ms Erica Ndlovu, also addressed the ceremony, applauding the hard work and commitment that culminated in the day’s celebration. “This day marks the fruition of several years of hard work, zeal and commitment,” she said, noting that the graduates were ready to enter society equipped with skills to contribute to national development.
Ms Ndlovu further acknowledged the challenges of limited job absorption within Botswana’s economy, encouraging graduates to broaden their horizons. “We did not create you for Botswana but for the world,” she affirmed, urging them to explore opportunities beyond national borders while remaining rooted in the values instilled during their training.