News

The University of Botswana (UB) Department of Student Life and Experience on the 29th of April 2026, hosted a combined inauguration ceremony for the Students Representative Council (SRC) and the Graduate Studies Association (GSA), marking the official transition of student leadership for the 2026/2027 term.

Held at the Student Centre Foyer, the handover and swearing-in ceremony followed the successful conclusion of the SRC and GSA elections conducted on the 17th of April 2026, with results officially confirmed by the respective Chief Electoral Officers.

The occasion symbolised both reflection and renewal as outgoing student leaders formally handed over responsibilities to the newly elected representatives, ushering in a new chapter of student governance at the University.

Delivering welcome remarks, Director of Corporate Affairs, Dr Faith Rapuleng-Tuelo, said UB management valued student leadership as a critical pillar of the University community and extended warm congratulations to the incoming SRC and GSA leadership. Dr Rapuleng-Tuelo noted that both the SRC and GSA election processes reflected transparency, accountability and the democratic values that shaped student leadership at the University. She encouraged the new leaders to approach their responsibilities with integrity, commitment and a strong sense of service to the student body.

Among those in attendance were incoming SRC President, Mr Neville Sechele of the GS-26 student political party, incoming GSA Chairperson, Mr Joseph Mwape as well as outgoing SRC and GSA leaders. The highlight of the ceremony was the official swearing-in of the new student leaders, led by members of the Student Judiciary Office, signifying the formal assumption of office by the newly elected representatives.

Reflecting on their time in office, outgoing student leaders shared the achievements and challenges of their tenure while the incoming leadership outlined their vision and commitment to advancing student welfare and strengthening representation.

In his remarks, newly elected SRC President, Mr Sechele, emphasised that his leadership would be guided by the interests of UB students above all else. He stated that his administration would work collectively to deliver on student needs despite most members of his cabinet coming from a different political formation, Moono-wa-Baithuti. He stressed that under his leadership, the SRC would remain united and focused on service delivery, noting that student governance should rise above political affiliations in pursuit of the common good.

Giving the vote of thanks, Director of Student Life and Experience, Dr Babra Pansiri, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the elections and the inauguration ceremony including staff members, service providers, volunteers as well as the electoral and student governance teams.

Dr Pansiri also paid special tribute to the outgoing student leaders for their dedication and contribution to student politics during their tenure. “Leadership is rooted in service rather than status,” she said.

She congratulated the incoming SRC and GSA representatives and reminded them that their new roles demanded responsibility, accountability and a commitment to serving student interests with honour and humility. The inauguration marked the beginning of a new chapter in student governance with high expectations for the new leadership to continue advocating student interests, strengthening campus life and fostering a vibrant and inclusive university experience.

Over the years, UB student leadership has proven to be an important breeding ground for future political, civic and corporate leaders. Several UB alumni who once served in student leadership structures have gone on to become cabinet ministers and occupy influential leadership positions in society, demonstrating the lasting value of student governance as a foundation for national leadership.