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Sixteen (16) preschoolers graduated from the University of Botswana Child Development Laboratory (UBCDL), celebrating not only their progress to "big school" but also 25 years of shaping early childhood education at the University of Botswana (UB).

For a quarter of a century, UBCDL has been more than a classroom. It has been a space where young learners take their first steps towards confidence, curiosity and compassion. Organised under the theme “Hands that can, Hearts that care,” the event captured both the spirit of the children and the philosophy of the programme.

Reflecting on the programme’s legacy, Head of Department and Family and Consumer Sciences, Dr Lily Fidzani, emphasised the significance of the 25-year journey and the programme’s impact on early childhood education, indicating that the first cohort were now employed adults in various professions.

“This is the 25th graduation. Our first graduates are now over 25 years old and working. That shows how long this lab has been shaping lives,” emphasised Dr Fidzani.

Meanwhile, fondly known as Teacher Gorata, spoke with heartfelt pride about the children’s growth, focusing on the growth and character of the children as well as highlighting the values of care and kindness that defined their time at UBCDL.

“I’ve watched little hands learn to hold pencils, paint, build and write. But even more special has been watching their hearts care for one another, share, help, and show kindness every day.” beamed Teacher Gorata.

Moreover, the graduation was a showcase of the University’s commitment to producing industry-ready graduates in a unique collaboration. Students from the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences designed and tailored the graduation gowns for the children as part of their final examination, turning the ceremony into a living classroom of creativity and skill.