Ministry of Higher Education, Botswana

Permanent Secretary, ​Professor Richard Tabulawa will be appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) tomorrow at 13:45 PM.

​The PAC sessions bring much-needed transparency and oversight to public administration.
​Be sure to tune in!

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𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐌𝐀𝐄𝐋𝐄 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐒𝐓𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐖𝐄𝐋𝐅𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐐𝐔𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐄𝐃𝐔𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐃𝐔𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐕𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐏𝐇𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐑𝐀𝐌𝐎𝐓𝐒𝐖𝐀

Continuing his nationwide engagement with private Education and Training Providers (ETPs),today Honourable Prince Maele, travelled approximately 20 kilometres south of Gaborone to Phronesis International College in Ramotswa, where he reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to ensuring quality, accessible, and industry-responsive education for Botswana's youth.

Accompanied by Deputy Permanent Secretary responsible for TVET, Professor Agreement Jotia, Legal Advisor Ms. Keneilwe Chakalisa, Mr. Oakantse Bathai representing the Director of the Department of Tertiary Education Financing (DTEF), Mr. Ndada Luza representing the Director of Transformation, and other Ministry officials, the Minister toured the institution's facilities to assess the learning environment and engage with management on opportunities for growth and improvement.

The delegation was welcomed by local leadership, including Kgosi Pogiso Botlhole and area councilor. Kgosi Botlhole commended the Minister for personally engaging institutions and providing constructive feedback aimed at improving educational outcomes.
He also highlighted the significance of Phronesis International College as one of the pioneering institutions established by a woman in the area.

Providing an overview of the institution, Founder and Chief Executive Officer Dr. T.K. Majela explained that the college was licensed in 2018 and commenced operations in 2020, enrolling its first cohort of 12 students in Guidance and Counselling in 2021. She noted that the institution has since experienced remarkable growth and currently enrolls 330 students supported by 60 staff members and a network of consultants.

Dr. Majela explained that the name Phronesis means "wisdom put into practice," a philosophy that underpins the institution's approach to teaching and learning. The college offers programmes in counselling, psychotherapy, rehabilitation, human development, and family studies, while also promoting research, student exchange programmes, community engagement, and international partnerships.
She highlighted the institution's commitment to social responsibility through initiatives such as adopting Kgetheng Primary School, operating community counselling programmes, supporting clinical placements, and securing suitable accommodation for students within the Ramotswa community, thereby creating economic opportunities for local residents.

Addressing management, staff, and students, Honourable Maele explained that the Ministry currently sponsors approximately 41,000 students, with 14,000 enrolled in brigades and technical colleges and 12,800 studying at private institutions. Of these, 288 students are enrolled at Phronesis International College.
The Minister said the institutional visits are intended to assess whether sponsored students are receiving quality education and whether Government is obtaining value for money from its investment in education. He noted that of the Ministry's P6.7 billion budget, P4.5 billion is allocated to student sponsorships.

"We are investing heavily in human capital because young people are Botswana's new diamonds. Our responsibility is to polish, equip, and empower them with the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world," he said.

Honourable Maele commended the institution's vision, growth trajectory, community impact, and international outlook. He encouraged management to strengthen strategic partnerships, expand student exchange programmes, conduct graduate tracer studies to monitor employment outcomes, and diversify revenue streams through research, innovation, consultancy services, and other third-stream income initiatives.

The Minister reiterated Government's commitment to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), noting that 49 percent of sponsorship funding is now directed towards TVET programmes as part of efforts to address unemployment, skills mismatches, and economic diversification.

While expressing satisfaction with the institution's progress, the Minister advised management to address areas identified during the campus tour and assured them that he would return for a follow-up visit to assess improvements. He emphasized that student welfare, quality infrastructure, and a conducive learning environment must remain top priorities.

For his part, Deputy Permanent Secretary Professor Agreement Jotia commended the institution for offering programmes that directly address societal needs, including counselling, psychotherapy, rehabilitation, human development, and family studies.
He encouraged management to continue investing in student welfare and to ensure that graduates are equipped with practical skills that can be applied in their workplaces and communities.

Professor Jotia also applauded the institution's decision to establish itself in Ramotswa, noting that bringing higher education closer to communities contributes significantly to local development and empowerment.

Delivering closing remarks, Kgosi Tsimane Mokgosi applauded the Minister and his delegation for engaging directly with institutions and communities, describing the initiative as a clear demonstration of Government's commitment to improving the quality and relevance of higher education in Botswana.

𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗚𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀

Earlier today, the Ministry of Higher Education through the Department of Vocational Education and Training, held a productive engagement with partners from Germany, focused on strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Botswana.

The session brought together leadership and technical teams, including the Deputy Permanent Secretary - TVET, Prof. Agreement Lati Jotia, Acting Director, Principal and Chief Technical Education Officers and Curriculum Specialists representatives. The visiting delegation comprising of Dr. Norbert Volker and Senior Trade Consultant-Southern Africa, Ms. Merapelo Akuje shared valuable insights from previous collaborations in Botswana, particularly the successful mechatronics programme implemented in partnership with industry.

A key highlight was the success story of two Batswana graduates who after participating in the Mechatronics exchange programme between Botswana and Germany, secured permanent employment in Germany thus demonstrating the real impact of industry-aligned training and international cooperation.

Discussions centred on, expanding student and lecturer exchange programmes, strengthening industry participation in curriculum development, aligning TVET programmes with Botswana’s Economic Transformation Programme, exploring if there are any possibilities in collaborative training and to position Botswana as a Training Hub that can be exported to the Region.

The engagement reaffirmed the importance of partnerships that go beyond funding, focusing instead on knowledge exchange, skills development, and long-term impact. Emphasis was also placed on addressing challenges such as curriculum alignment, capacity building for lecturers, and improving the perception of TVET among young people.

This marks another important step in revitalising TVET in Botswana and ensuring our graduates are equipped with globally competitive skills.

THE JOURNEY CONTNUES!!!
​Hon. Minister Maele is maintaining momentum with his strategic visits and engagements with Private Education and Training Providers (ETPs)...
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𝐁𝐎𝐓𝐇𝐎 𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐒𝐇𝐎𝐖𝐂𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐒 𝐈𝐍𝐍𝐎𝐕𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍, 𝐄𝐗𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄, 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐅𝐔𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄-𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐘 𝐄𝐃𝐔𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍

The Minister of Higher Education, Honourable Prince Maele, and his delegation concluded his tour of the day by visiting Botho University, where they were treated to an impressive showcase of innovation, technology, and industry-driven education.

The visit commenced with a comprehensive campus tour led by Pro Vice-Chancellor for Infrastructure, Mr. Adiya Ram. The delegation toured lecture theatres, hospitality training facilities, the admissions centre, Student Representative Council (SRC) offices, and a range of specialized laboratories, including electronics, physics, forensic science, networking, chemistry, electrical machines, plumbing, welding, and carpentry workshops.

A highlight of the tour was the unveiling of a student-designed vehicle prototype capable of travelling at speeds of up to 20 kilometres per hour. The Minister also visited the University's Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Research, where students and researchers are developing innovative solutions to address emerging industry needs.

Providing an overview of the institution, Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Sheela Raja Ram, outlined Botho University's commitment to supporting Botswana's national development priorities through quality education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development.
Established over 30 years ago, Botho University has grown into a respected African multinational institution with campuses in Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, and Ghana. The university serves approximately 7,500 students across its campuses and employs more than 500 academic and support staff members. It offers programmes ranging from certificates and diplomas to undergraduate, master's, and doctoral qualifications.

Dr. Raja Ram highlighted the university's strong focus on technology-driven learning, student success, industry relevance, and employer engagement. She noted that Botho University has invested more than P30 million in scholarships, including support for women in STEM fields, refugees, and postgraduate students.

Addressing management and staff, Honourable Maele described Botho University as a premium institution and a strategic partner in Botswana's higher education landscape. "I am proud to be associated with Botho University. You have earned my trust through your commitment to quality, innovation, and student success," he said.

The Minister commended the university's investment in modern infrastructure, technology, and practical skills development, urging management to maintain the high standards that have positioned the institution among the region's leading universities.
He encouraged the university to diversify its revenue streams through research, innovation, consultancy services, and other third-stream income opportunities. He also challenged the institution to expand its student accommodation facilities to meet growing demand and strengthen its position as a destination of choice for local and international students.

Honourable Maele further emphasised the importance of investing in staff welfare and professional development, noting that motivated employees are central to delivering quality education and sustaining institutional excellence.

Representing the Permanent Secretary, Professor Richard Tabulawa, Deputy Permanent Secretary responsible for TVET, Professor Agreement Jotia, underscored the importance of collaboration between Government, industry, and higher education institutions in driving national development. He commended the university's investment in renewable energy solutions, particularly its use of solar energy, describing it as a practical demonstration of innovation and sustainability.

Professor Jotia further encouraged institutions to continue working closely with Government and industry to produce graduates equipped with the skills required for the future economy.
In response to the Minister’s remarks, management indicated that the university currently provides 72 student accommodation units and actively incorporates student voices into institutional governance. The SRC forms part of the governance structure and is represented on advisory bodies, ensuring that students participate in key decision-making processes. Management also highlighted the institution's strong commitment to quality assurance through regular engagement with the Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA).

Delivering the vote of thanks, Board Chairperson Mr. Jay Ramesh expressed appreciation to the Minister and his delegation for the visit and reaffirmed Botho University's commitment to partnering with Government in advancing higher education, innovation, and skills development.

The visit reinforced the Ministry's commitment to supporting institutions that are producing future-ready graduates, driving innovation, and contributing meaningfully to Botswana's transformation into a knowledge-based economy.

𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐌𝐀𝐄𝐋𝐄 𝐇𝐀𝐈𝐋𝐒 𝐈𝐌𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐒𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐎𝐋 𝐎𝐅 𝐁𝐔𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐒𝐂𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐀𝐒 𝐀 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐆𝐈𝐂 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐍𝐄𝐑 𝐈𝐍 𝐇𝐔𝐌𝐀𝐍 𝐂𝐀𝐏𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓

The Imperial School of Business and Science (ISBS) today welcomed the Honourable Minister of Higher Education, Prince Maele, and his delegation for an official visit aimed at strengthening collaboration between Government and private tertiary institutions in advancing skills development, innovation, and human capital development in Botswana.

The visit commenced with a tour of the institution's facilities, during which the Minister expressed admiration for the school's infrastructure, learning environment, and commitment to quality education.

Providing an overview of the institution, Managing Director Mr. Nidheesh Sharma highlighted that approximately 65 percent of the institution's students are Government-sponsored. He noted that ISBS has fully aligned itself with the quality standards prescribed by the Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA), phasing out legacy programmes and introducing qualifications that are relevant to industry needs.

Established in 2003, the institution relocated to Main Mall, Extension 2, in 2011 and was subsequently rebranded as the Imperial School of Business and Science. Today, ISBS offers a diverse range of programmes in Accounting, Business, Finance, Management, Tourism, Education, Health Sciences, Information Technology, Corporate Training, and Short Learning Programmes.

Mr. Sharma further noted that the institution places equal emphasis on academic excellence, practical skills development, and character building. In recognition of its commitment to quality assurance, ISBS was among the first institutions to receive accreditation from the Botswana Qualifications Authority under both the previous and revised regulatory frameworks. In 2020, the institution successfully developed and registered 26 qualifications on the National Credit and Qualifications Framework (NCQF), spanning certificate, diploma, degree, and postgraduate levels.

Addressing management and staff, Honourable Maele described ISBS as a strategic partner in the Ministry's efforts to develop a skilled and competitive workforce. He commended the institution for its growth, quality infrastructure, and contribution to higher education.

The Minister reiterated that young people remain Botswana's "new diamonds" and called upon institutions to produce graduates who are innovative, entrepreneurial, and ready to contribute to national development. He encouraged ISBS to strengthen industry partnerships, expand its programme offerings, attract international students, invest in research and innovation, and diversify its revenue streams through third-stream income initiatives.
He also challenged the institution to embrace the Ministry's TVET revitalisation agenda, noting that Technical and Vocational Education and Training remains critical in addressing unemployment, closing skills gaps, and supporting economic diversification.

Representing the Permanent Secretary, Professor Richard Tabulawa, Deputy Permanent Secretary responsible for TVET, Professor Agreement Jotia, emphasised the importance developing pragmatic and solution-oriented leaders.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Ms. Tshepho Tlhankane of the Student Support Services Department expressed appreciation to the Minister and his delegation for the visit and for their continued commitment to supporting higher education and skills development.

The visit reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to fostering strong partnerships with private institutions and ensuring that higher education remains responsive to the needs of industry, society, and the future economy.

𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐌𝐀𝐄𝐋𝐄 𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐔𝐃𝐒 𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐋𝐘 𝐁𝐈𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐄'𝐒 𝐑𝐎𝐋𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐅𝐀𝐈𝐓𝐇, 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐑, 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏

As part of his ongoing engagements with private Education and Training Providers (ETPs) and his commitment to inclusive stakeholder engagement, the Honourable Minister of Higher Education, Prince Maele, visited Assembly Bible College (ABC) in Tlokweng this morning.

Founded in 1970 in Gaborone under the leadership of Reverend G.L. Haggard, Assembly Bible College is owned and operated by the Assemblies of God in Botswana (AOG) and has played a significant role in theological education, leadership development, and character formation for over five decades.

Welcoming the Minister and his delegation, Board Representative Dr. K.C. Malizimba expressed gratitude for the visit, describing ABC as a respected institution dedicated to preparing men and women for ministry and service to society. He highlighted the institution's desire to increase student enrolment and fully utilize its facilities to expand its impact.

Providing an overview of the institution, College President Dr. P.B. Ntwaetsile noted that Assembly Bible College is among the few theological institutions in Botswana operating under a structured governance framework. The college received accreditation from the Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA) in 2017 and has since graduated 163 students. Currently, the institution has an enrolment of 144 students against a capacity of 200.

Dr. Ntwaetsile highlighted the college's contribution to national development through the training of pastors, chaplains, counsellors, and spiritual leaders who serve in institutions such as the Botswana Defence Force, Botswana Prison Service, churches, and communities across the country. The college also works closely with correctional facilities, providing leadership training, counselling, and rehabilitation programmes aimed at transforming lives and restoring hope.

Addressing management, staff, and students, Honourable Maele reaffirmed the Ministry's mandate of developing human capital and addressing skills gaps to support Botswana's socio-economic development. He acknowledged the important role played by faith-based institutions in shaping morally grounded, ethical, and responsible citizens.

The Minister encouraged the college to explore innovative ways of attracting more young people through relevant and appealing programmes while strengthening partnerships and generating additional revenue streams to enhance sustainability. He also challenged the institution to explore opportunities within the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) space, noting that TVET remains a key pillar in addressing unemployment, entrepreneurship, and economic diversification. "Institutions such as Assembly Bible College are important stakeholders in nation-building because they contribute to the spiritual, moral, and leadership development of our young people," he said.

For his part, the Permanent Secretary, Professor Richard Tabulawa, commended the college for its contribution to character building and ethical leadership development. He noted that the institution's impact extends beyond theological training and encouraged it to continue growing its reach and influence.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Assemblies of God in Botswana Assistant General Secretary, Reverend Pulafela Siele, expressed appreciation to the Minister and his delegation for the visit and valuable feedback. He emphasised that ministry is both a calling and a profession, requiring well-trained leaders equipped with competencies in areas such as leadership, counselling, and financial management.

The visit underscored the Ministry's recognition of the vital role faith-based institutions play in developing spiritually grounded leaders, strengthening communities, and contributing to Botswana's broader human capital development agenda.

Ministry of Higher Education, Botswana

THE JOURNEY CONTNUES!!

​Hon. Minister Maele is maintaining momentum with his strategic visits and engagements with Private Education and Training Providers (ETPs).

Together, we are strengthening partnerships and aligning private higher education with our national vision for student success.
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