Woes awaits MoESD beginning of 2015
BOSETU Secretary Genera, Tobokani Rari
Unresolved issues at the Ministry of Education and Skills Development (MoESD) are likely to disrupt the teaching practice in the coming year unless the government comes up with a very good strategy before the beginning of the year.
Firstly, the Ministry has to find a way of absorbing all the displaced teachers who it has been paying for the past twelve months for sitting idle at home without any work.
At the beginning of this year, the Ministry decided to pilot the schools of excellence policy on Music subject at senior schools and has failed to provide the teachers with students.
According to one of the music teachers, the Ministry is failing to provide the students because the music syllabus chosen is too complex and students fail the subject every year.
“Students are not choosing the subject because they do not want to spoil their overall results. The syllabus is very difficult than the one used at the local Colleges of Education, hence the Ministry had to send teachers for further training outside the country,” the teacher explained.
Sometimes in 2011, the Ministry decided that the subjects of Music, Physical Education and Design and Technology will only be taught in what they referred to as schools of excellence. The implication of the decision was that the teaching of the three subjects will be reduced to take place in selected schools each, across the country.
The decision was allegedly taken without due consultation especially with the teacher’s unions as custodians of teacher welfare. As a consequence some of the teachers spent the whole year without teaching owing to the fact that the schools have been reduced hence reducing the vacancies within the subject.
“These subjects have been operating on pilot for the past twelve years without any paths of progression and our view is that these teachers have been subjected to very unfair and discriminatory labour practice,” explained the Secretary General of Botswana Sector of Educators Trade Union (BOSETU), Tobokani Rari.
Rari alleges that consideration was not given to what would happen to teachers offering those subjects when the number of schools offering them was being shrinked to only five. He further stated that the consequence of this not so well unthought-of decision has now come to haunt not only the Ministry of Education, but the teachers as well.
Another problem that the Ministry has to deal with urgently is the payment of overtime allowances for teachers or it would be slapped with lawsuits and the teachers would refuse to do extra works.
BOSETU insists that it would no longer tolerate a situation whereby teachers conduct remedial lessons, enrichment activities and supervise course work after hours and sporting activities during weekends unless the Ministry compensate them accordingly.
BOSETU secretary general, Tobokani Rari says his union is of the view that the government is all out to exploit teachers by making them work extremely long hours and not compensate them.
“Teachers who have worked both after hours and during the rest days have not been compensated. In our view such exploitation and disregard of the statutes can no longer be tolerated,” Rari pointed out.
The conflict on this issue dates back to year 2010 when the Public Service replaced the teaching service Act and introduced fixed working hours for all the civil service employees. When the Public Service Act (PSA) was implemented it became apparent that teachers needed to comply with the provisions of the Employment Act and the international labour standards regulating the hours of work.
The act required that employees could work for a maximum of 8 hours in a day unless if engaged to work overtime. This meant that a lot of other activities such as remedial lessons, enrichment activities, supervision of coursework, sporting activities, and others fell outside the realm of the stipulated hours.
At transitional negotiations in 2010, that is, negotiations meant for the purposes of a swift movement from the old act (Teaching Service Act) to the new Act (PSA), trade unions proposed a separate arrangement of working hours of teachers because of the peculiarity of the job. The trade unions proposed a 26 day model as a way of resolving the hours of work issue.
The Directorate of Public Service Management (DPSM) however thought that the proposed model was too complex and would be costly and the unions maintained that it would be much cheaper as it would only add ten extra hours per week for the teachers. From the ten hours, eight hours will constitute a day hence the sixth day in a week. This would make teachers to transform to a bracket of employees who are paid for 26 days at the end of the month hence having an additional remuneration of four days per month.
“This is a model that we have persistently put forward to government as the lasting solution to the notorious hours of work issue. Government instead has not been forthcoming to discuss the 26 day model as proposed by the trade unions, but instead has resorted to engaging teachers on overtime.”
However the Government had previously expressed the fear that the 26 day model will be expensive and preferred to resort to engaging teachers on overtime. In spite of this believe by government, it is now proving that overtime is not coming any cheaper. Of recent the employer has been decreeing huge expenditure on overtime for teachers and made desperate attempts to alter overtime rules as provided for in the Employment Act.
The Ministry of Education and Skills Development insist on payment of fifty percent of hours worked as days off and another half paid off in monetary terms, but BOSETU has advised its members to desist from carrying overtime in case that the employer pre – determines the conditions under which the overtime is to be worked in such a plot.
“We have seen government clearly and fragrantly bypassing and bending the laws regulating overtime through unlawful savingrams authored by DPSM and the Ministry of Education. Such instructions have put teachers and school managements on a collision course. We have huge number of teachers whose authorized overtime engagements have not been paid out as government shifts goal posts on overtime payments.”
BOSETU is of the view that Education Ad hoc Sectoral Bargaining structure which worked well during Minister Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi and Permanent Secretary Grace Muzila’s management has become defunct and has ceased to meet.
The union has therefore called on the Vice President who doubles as the Minister of Education and Skills Development, Mokgweetsi Masisi and the Permanent Secretary Dr Richard Matlhare to get the structure up again and resolve the mess that is besieging their Ministry. The structure according to the union did help in addressing issues of industrial relations and teacher welfare.
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19 Bokamoso Private Hospital nurses graduate at Lenmed Nursing College
The graduation of 19 nurses from Bokamoso Private Hospital at Lenmed Nursing College marks a significant milestone in their careers. These nurses have successfully completed various short learning programs, including Adult Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Nursing Care, Anaesthetic & Recovery Room Nursing, Anaesthetic Nursing, and Recovery Room Nursing. The ceremony, held in Gaborone, was a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Lenmed Nursing College, a renowned healthcare group with a presence in South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, and Ghana, has been instrumental in providing quality education and training to healthcare professionals. The Group Head of Operations, Jayesh Parshotam, emphasized the importance of upskilling nurses, who are at the forefront of healthcare systems. He also expressed his appreciation for the partnerships with Bokamoso Private Hospital, the Ministry of Health, and various health training institutes in Botswana.
Dr. Morrison Sinvula, a consultant from the Ministry of Health, commended Lenmed Health and Lenmed Nursing College for their commitment to the education and training of these exceptional nurses. He acknowledged their guidance, mentorship, and support in shaping the nurses’ careers and ensuring their success. Dr. Sinvula also reminded the graduates that education does not end here, as the field of healthcare is constantly evolving. He encouraged them to remain committed to lifelong learning and professional development, embracing new technologies and staying updated with the latest medical advancements.
Dr. Gontle Moleele, the Superintendent of Bokamoso Private Hospital, expressed her excitement and pride in the graduating class of 2023. She acknowledged the sacrifices made by these individuals, who have families and responsibilities, to ensure their graduation. Dr. Moleele also thanked Lenmed Nursing College for providing this opportunity to the hospital’s nurses, as it will contribute to the growth of the hospital.
The certificate recipients from Bokamoso Private Hospital were recognized for their outstanding achievements in their respective programs. Those who received the Cum Laude distinction in the Adult Intensive Care Unit program were Elton Keatlholwetse, Lebogang Kgokgonyane, Galaletsang Melamu, Pinkie Mokgosi, Ofentse Seboletswe, Gorata Basupi, Bareng Mosala, and Justice Senyarelo. In the Emergency Nursing Care program, Atlanang Moilwa, Bakwena Moilwa, Nathan Nhiwathiwa, Mogakolodi Lesarwe, Modisaotsile Thomas, and Lorato Matenje received the Cum Laude distinction. Kelebogile Dubula and Gaolatlhe Sentshwaraganye achieved Cum Laude in the Anaesthetic & Recovery Room Nursing program, while Keletso Basele excelled in the Anaesthetic Nursing program. Mompoloki Mokwaledi received recognition for completing the Recovery Room Nursing program.
In conclusion, the graduation of these 19 nurses from Bokamoso Private Hospital at Lenmed Nursing College is a testament to their dedication and commitment to their profession. They have successfully completed various short learning programs, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their respective fields. The collaboration between Lenmed Nursing College, Bokamoso Private Hospital, and the Ministry of Health has played a crucial role in their success. As they embark on their careers, these nurses are encouraged to continue their professional development and embrace new advancements in healthcare.
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BNF secures 15 constituencies in UDC coalition, wants more
The Botswana National Front (BNF) has recently announced that they have already secured 15 constituencies in the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) coalition, despite ongoing negotiations. This revelation comes as the BNF expresses its dissatisfaction with the current government and its leadership.
The UDC, which is comprised of the BNF, Botswana Peoples Party (BPP), Alliance for Progressives (AP), and Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), is preparing for the upcoming General Elections. However, the negotiations to allocate constituencies among the involved parties are still underway. Despite this, the BNF Chairman, Patrick Molotsi, confidently stated that they have already acquired 15 constituencies and are expecting to add more to their tally.
Molotsi’s statement reflects the BNF’s long-standing presence in many constituencies across Botswana. With a strong foothold in these areas, it is only natural for the BNF to seek an increase in the number of constituencies they represent. This move not only strengthens their position within the UDC coalition but also demonstrates their commitment to serving the interests of the people.
In a press conference, BNF Secretary General, Ketlhafile Motshegwa, expressed his discontent with the current government leadership. He criticized the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) for what he perceives as a disregard for the well-being of the Batswana people. Motshegwa highlighted issues such as high unemployment rates and shortages of essential medicines as evidence of the government’s failure to address the needs of its citizens.
The BNF’s dissatisfaction with the current government is a reflection of the growing discontent among the population. The Batswana people are increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress and the failure to address pressing issues. The BNF’s assertion that the government is playing with the lives of its citizens resonates with many who feel neglected and unheard.
The BNF’s acquisition of 15 constituencies, even before the negotiations have concluded, is a testament to their popularity and support among the people. It is a clear indication that the Batswana people are ready for change and are looking to the BNF to provide the leadership they desire.
As the negotiations continue, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize the interests of the people. The allocation of constituencies should be done in a fair and transparent manner, ensuring that the voices of all citizens are represented. The BNF’s success in securing constituencies should serve as a reminder to the other parties of the need to listen to the concerns and aspirations of the people they aim to represent.
In conclusion, the BNF’s acquisition of 15 constituencies, despite ongoing negotiations, highlights their strong presence and support among the Batswana people. Their dissatisfaction with the current government leadership reflects the growing discontent in the country. As the UDC coalition prepares for the upcoming General Elections, it is crucial for all parties to prioritize the needs and aspirations of the people. The BNF’s success should serve as a reminder of the importance of listening to the voices of the citizens and working towards a better future for Botswana.
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Children’s summit to discuss funding of NGOS
One of the key issues that will be discussed by the Childrens’ Summit, which will be hosted by Childline Botswana Trust on 28th – 30th November in Gaborone, will be the topical issue of financing and strengthening of civil society organizations.
A statement from Childline Botswana indicates that the summit will adopt a road map for resourcing the children’s agenda by funding organizations. It will also cover issues relating to child welfare and protection; aimed at mobilizing governments to further strengthen Child Helplines; as well as sharing of emerging technologies to enhance the protection of Children and promotion of their rights.
According to Gaone Chepete, Communications Officer at Childline Botswana, the overall objective of the summit is to provide a platform for dialogue and engagement towards promoting practices and policies that fulfil children’s rights and welfare.
“Child Helplines in the region meet on a bi-annual basis to reflect on the state of children; evaluate their contribution and share experiences and best practice in the provision of services for children,” said Chepete.
The financing of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) by the state or its functionaries has generated mixed reactions from within the civil society space, with many arguing that it threatened NGOs activism and operational independence.
In February 2019, University of Botswana academic Kenneth Dipholo released a paper titled “State philanthropy: The demise of charitable organizations in Botswana,” in which he faulted then President Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama for using charity for political convenience and annexing the operational space of NGOs.
“Civil society is the domain in which individuals can exercise their rights as citizens and set limits to the power of the state. The state should be developing capable voluntary organizations rather than emaciating or colonizing them by usurping their space,” argued Dipholo.
He further argued that direct involvement of the state or state president in charity breeds unhealthy competition between the state itself and other organizations involved in charity. Under these circumstances, he added, the state will use charity work to remain relevant to the ordinary people and enhance its visibility at the expense of NGOs.
“A consequence of this arrangement is that charitable organizations will become affiliates of the state. This stifles innovation in the sense that it narrows the ability of charitable organizations to think outside the box. It also promotes mono-culturalism, as the state could support only charitable organizations that abide by its wishes,” said Dipholo.
In conclusion, Dipholo urged the state to focus on supporting NGOs so that they operate in a system that combines philanthropic work and state welfare programs.
He added that state philanthropy threatens to relegate and render charitable organizations virtually irrelevant and redundant unless they re-engineer themselves.
Another University of Botswana (UB) academic, Professor Zibani Maundeni, opined that politics vitally shape civil society interaction; as seen in the interactions between the two, where there is mutual criticism in each other’s presence.
Over the years, NGOs have found themselves grappling with dwindling financial resources as donors ran out of money in the face of increased competition for financing. Many NGOs have also been faulted for poorly managing their finances because of limited strategic planning and financial management expertise. This drove NGOs to look to government for funding; which fundamentally altered the relationships between the two. The end result was a complete change in the operational culture of NGOs, which diminished their social impact and made them even more fragile. Increased government control through contract clauses also reduced NGOs activism and autonomy.
However, others believe that NGOs and government need each other, especially in the provision of essential services like child welfare and protection. Speaking at the Civil Society Child Rights Convention in 2020, Assistant Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Setlhabelo Modukanele said government considers NGOs as critical partners in development.
“We recognize the role that NGOs play a critical role in the country’s development agenda,” said Modukanele.