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Graduate Students Association advised to stick to principles

Student Welfare Director, Ms Barbra Pansiri, has advised new Graduate Students Association (GSA) office bearers to abide by the University of Botswana rules and procedures as well as to uphold high moral standards if they were to make the University a conducive learning environment.

Ms Barbra Pansiri was speaking during the 2019/2020 GSA handover over ceremony at the Student Center on April 23, 2019. She encouraged the new members to familiarize themselves with governing rules and procedures.

Ms Pansiri also urged them to commit themselves and dedicate much of their efforts towards serving the interests of students and University. She further called on the members to lead by example.

“Maintain open communication with students and management. Be part of the solution and demonstrate maturity. Inspire others, advocate and appreciate some limitations and be focused on studies. Conduct value earning activities to students and the institution,” advised Ms Pansiri.

She advised the new members to promote academic excellence including dialogue guided by mutual respect.

Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor Student Affairs, Professor Happy Siphambe, said graduate students were key to research that could help improve the University’s rankings. Therefore, Professor Siphambe urged them to produce research work that addressed pressing national issues. He said they were the next generation of researchers and innovators in addition to being mentors and role models to young people.

Dean of the Graduate School, Professor George Anderson, advised graduate students to search for more knowledge and acquire necessary skills for their research projects. He also advised them to complete their studies on time and suggests how programmes could be improved.

“In conjunction with your supervisors, develop a plan and timetable for completion of all stages of your thesis. Adhere to schedule and meet deadlines,” said Professor Anderson.

Former GSA Chairperson, Mr Koketso Gatsoswe, shared some of their achievements among them collaboration with University of Namibia, cultural exchange events, GSA structural reforms and good communication with members.

New GSA Chairperson, Mr Thuso Molefe, assured UB management of good relations with the association.

He also promised to fight against student plagiarism, laziness and class absenteeism. Mr Moelfe said they would also address issues concerning student welfare. He further promised to work hard towards helping UB achieve its vision.

The committee comprises: Thuso Molefe (Chairperson), Thabo Tlale (Vice Chairperson), Botho Ontiretse Podi (Treasure), Kesaobaka Raroki (Secretary General), Mmabatho Rampanyane (Executive Member), Baraka Maleberi (Publication Officer) and Mabuza Siyabonga (Student Welfare).

In pursuit of academic excellence