The Minister of Higher Education, Prince Maele, has called on Batswana to embrace Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a critical driver of economic transformation, innovation, and job creation. Speaking at the national TVET Pitso held on July 10, 2025, at Ba Isago University in Gaborone, Maele declared that the future of Botswana’s economy hinges on the successful transformation of TVET.
Addressing stakeholders from government, industry, education and training institutions, and development partners, Maele expressed deep gratitude to President Duma Gideon Boko for officiating the event, describing him as a visionary leader and “the Joshua of our time.” He lauded the President’s commitment to economic diversification, job creation, and the welfare of the people, saying such leadership continues to inspire the transformation agenda.
“This Pitso represents more than just an event—it is the embodiment of a powerful coalition,” Maele said. “It is through unity and shared commitment that we will unlock the boundless potential of our people and empower them to build a strong, resilient Botswana, fueled by innovation.”
The Pitso was held under the theme: “Transformative TVET – A Driver for Enhanced Innovation, Social Mobility, Employability and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Economic Growth.” Maele said the theme was timely, aligning with Botswana’s national vision and a renewed government commitment to reform the TVET sector.
Highlighting lessons learned from Botswana’s partnership with Ghana, the Minister praised the West African nation’s TVET model, including its modern infrastructure and sector-driven curriculum. He said Botswana is drawing inspiration from Ghana’s efforts, particularly the work of the Ghana TVET Commission in aligning training with labour market demands and eliminating mismatches between qualifications and job requirements.
“Botswana’s Vision 2036 and the UDC Manifesto both highlight human capital development as central to our transformation,” Maele stated. “Economic diversification is only achievable through strategic investment in skills. That is why we have prioritised the transformation of TVET.”
Among key reforms announced, Maele revealed that brigades will be renamed vocational training centres and that student allowances will be increased from P300 to P1900 starting August 2025. He reaffirmed the government’s intention to modernise TVET facilities, empower instructors, and ensure curriculum alignment with the demands of Industry 4.0 and beyond.
The Minister underscored the development of a comprehensive National TVET Policy currently awaiting government approval. The policy outlines a SMART TVET system built on five pillars: quality and relevance, access and equity, employability and entrepreneurship, labour market intelligence, and lifelong learning and innovation. It also mainstreams gender equality, inclusivity, and sustainable development goals.
Maele called for industry participation in curriculum design, work-based learning, and apprenticeships, emphasising that TVET graduates must not only be job seekers but also job creators. “Imagine a Botswana where TVET graduates launch start-ups, develop homegrown technologies, and manufacture products that proudly carry the label ‘Made in Botswana,’” he said.
He reiterated the government’s readiness to engage local industries, attract international partners, and revise outdated policies to create a more dynamic and responsive TVET system. Maele also noted that success would require national resolve and collective effort. “This journey of transformation is not a sprint. It is a marathon we must run together.”
