News

The University of Botswana Social Work Society (UBSWS) in collaboration with the Botswana Red Cross Society, on the 25th of March 2026 held an induction ceremony for the UB Red Cross Society at the UB Business Block.

The event marked the formal establishment of the UB Red Cross Society as a student-led branch aimed at promoting humanitarian service, leadership development and community engagement among students.

Speaking at the ceremony, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Social Work, Dr Kgosietsile Maripe, emphasised the significance of establishing a fully functional Red Cross branch within the University. He noted that the institution provided a critical environment for nurturing intellectual and civic leadership.

Dr Maripe explained that the initiative was intended to create a platform for students to develop professionally through volunteerism, leadership opportunities and active participation in humanitarian programmes guided by the principles and policies of the Botswana Red Cross Society.

The induction was also attended by Mr David David, Youth Development Coordinator for the Gaborone Branch, who highlighted the organisation’s collaborative approach in working with the newly elected student committee. He outlined the importance of community participation and leadership training, noting that the UB Red Cross Society would operate under the organisation’s Strategic Framework and Constitution.

The ceremony further provided students with insights into humanitarian work and reinforced the importance of structured organisational systems in delivering meaningful social impact.

Adding to the discussion, Mr Mpoloki Nawa traced the history and mission of the Botswana Red Cross Society, stating that the organisation was established to respond to complex social challenges by providing support where it was most needed. He encouraged the newly inducted committee to develop a clear strategic action plan with defined timelines which would be monitored in collaboration with the national body.

Closing the event, UBSWS Vice President and newly elected President of the UB Red Cross Society, Mr Kingsley Nwaigwe, delivered a message under the theme “Leadership and Volunteerism: Pathway to Humanitarian Service.” He urged students to embrace leadership as an opportunity to serve and to view volunteerism as a tool for empowerment and community transformation.