News

University of Botswana’s newly elected 2025/2026 Student Representative Council (SRC) and Graduate Student Association (GSA) executives have successfully completed an intensive two-day leadership training programme organised by the Department of Student Welfare. The training was specifically designed to equip the incoming student leaders with essential skills and competencies for effective governance, strategic decision-making and responsible leadership.

The capacity-building session placed emphasis on leadership ethics, emotional intelligence, communication strategy and institutional policy alignment. It also sought to prepare the student leaders to become role models within the University Community and beyond.

Delivering a keynote address, Acting Chief Finance Officer, Mr Kenneth Mabote, engaged the student leaders on financial ethics and moral responsibility, emphasising the importance of upholding ethical conduct in leadership. “Understanding the importance of ethics and morality in the finance world is an obligation,” he said. Mr Mabote reminded the student leaders that transparency and accountability were non-negotiable especially given the close interaction between their offices and finance division. “Your discretion in handling student affairs is paramount. You are stewards of not just resources but also the institutional trust bestowed upon you,” he added.

During her presentation on institutional communication protocols, Director of Public Affairs, Dr Faith Rapuleng-Tuelo, emphasised that student leaders served as ambassadors of the University, representing its values and image both on and off campus.

She urged them to adhere to the University’s communication policies and protect the institution's public image. “You represent not only the student body but also the University brand in all your engagements. Follow appropriate channels of communication and ensure messaging aligns with UB’s standards,” she advised.

Also addressing the participants was Mr Selebaleng Silver Mmapatsi, Deputy Director of Careers and Counselling Services, who underlined emotional intelligence as a cornerstone of effective leadership. “Emotions are attitudes that can determine success or failure,” noted Mr Mmapatsi. He encouraged the student leaders to cultivate emotional management skills to enhance collaboration, build strong teams and ultimately support sound governance.

Lead trainer and Director of Intro Vision Consultancy, Mr Tumelo Masalila, led an engaging session on personal leadership and legacy-building, urging the student leaders to reflect on their purpose and the impact they wished to leave behind. “What legacy are you leaving behind?” he asked. Mr Masalila stressed that self-leadership was foundational to leading others, urging the participants to invest in continuous learning and self-awareness. “At defining moments, emotional intelligence becomes critical. Lead yourself before you lead others,” he added.

In her closing remarks, Acting Director of Student Welfare, Dr Lebogang Magole, congratulated the student leaders and urged them to apply the skills gained, highlighting that such training complemented academics and helped shape future professionals. “This training is an investment in your leadership journey and contributes meaningfully to your holistic development,” said Dr Magole.