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Leaving her home in Seychelles to pursue higher education in Botswana, Ms Karen Hilary Ernesta has turned a childhood ambition into an outstanding academic achievement, graduating from the University of Botswana (UB) with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a perfect cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 5.0.

Her journey from the island nation of Seychelles to UB reflects the determination to pursue education beyond familiar surroundings and the commitment to a career devoted to teaching and inspiring future generations.

Raised in a close-knit family of eight (8) children, Ms Ernesta grew up in a household where discipline and high expectations were balanced with love and support. These early influences helped shape the perseverance and sense of responsibility that would guide her through her studies.

Her interest in education extended beyond the classroom. During her school years in Seychelles, she served as a class representative, school representative and peer coordinator. She also participated in debates, poetry competitions and school activities, developing leadership and communication skills alongside her academic interests. Her passion for History grew during secondary school, strengthening her childhood aspiration to become a teacher.

After completing her A-level studies in History and French Literature, Ms Ernesta pursued a Diploma in Secondary Education, specialising in History and Geography. She graduated with distinction, ranking among the top five (5) students in a cohort of approximately 200 graduates.

She then took another important step in her educational journey by enrolling at UB to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in History. Studying away from her home country, she continued to demonstrate the discipline and determination that had characterised her earlier academic years. She also remained committed to supporting others, readily helping her peers while balancing the demands of university life.

Her experience at UB extended beyond academic work to community engagement. Ms Ernesta volunteered at charity events especially visits to Gamodubu Child Centre where she spent time interacting with children. These experiences reflected her interest in contributing to the community, an important dimension of her ambition to become an educator.

Her graduation at UB’s 44th Graduation marks the culmination of a journey that began in Seychelles and continued in Botswana. With a CGPA of 5.0, she leaves the University with an exceptional academic record and a foundation for pursuing her ambition of teaching and guiding future generations.

For Ms Ernesta, the journey from Seychelles to UB has been more than a change of country or an academic pursuit. It has been a period of growth, achievement and preparation for a profession through which she hopes to make a lasting difference.