News

Forty-nine (49) University of Botswana (UB) students have successfully completed a refereeing short course in soccer and netball. The training, conducted by the UB Department of Sports, Culture and Recreation, concluded on the 21st of March 2025, at the UB Indoor Sports Centre.

The beginner-level courses introduced participants to the fundamental skills of officiating, aiming to increase the number of qualified referees for UB campus leagues while contributing to the broader development of sports officiating in Botswana. Among the 49 participants, 10 were female, with 20 students trained as netball referees and 29 specialising in football refereeing.

Speaking at the event, UB Sports and Recreation official, Mr Nelson Bodilenyane, noted that this was the fourth edition of the training, with the previous session held in 2023 which saw 30 students complete the programme. He highlighted that many past graduates had since progressed in their sports careers, officiating in various divisions under the Botswana Football Association (BFA).

Mr Bodilenyane further expressed his appreciation for UB’s commitment to producing well-rounded, employable graduates. He emphasised that the training aligned with the University’s strategic vision by equipping students with valuable skills that enhanced their career prospects.

Botswana Netball Association Instructor, Mr Abednico Chitelo, urged the students to embrace both refereeing and playing sports as a means of becoming well-rounded graduates. He encouraged them to nurture their passion for sports and explore professional opportunities within the field. He was supported by BFA Instructor, Mr Harris Lebotse, who highlighted the significance of sports in offering career opportunities, enhancing knowledge and developing leadership and decision-making skills, all while upholding the integrity of the game.

Meanwhile, UB Sports Officer, Mr Matlhogonolo Mokgosi, encouraged the graduates to take advantage of the job opportunities available in sports while also overcoming the challenges associated with the profession. He stated that their contributions would be instrumental in the growth and development of sports in Botswana.