BOTEPCO

HONOURABLE NONO KGAFELA MOKOKA HOSTS A CONSULTATIVE FORUM ON CHILD WELFARE

HONOURABLE NONO KGAFELA MOKOKA HOSTS A CONSULTATIVE FORUM ON CHILD WELFARE

The Minister of Child Welfare and Basic Education Honourable Dr. Nono Kgafela Mokoka, recently held a consultative forum with key stakeholders under her ministry.
In her address, the Minister highlighted that the primary objective of the forum was to explore strategies for effectively integrating child welfare and basic education under one cohesive ministry. This initiative aims to enhance service delivery and ensure a holistic approach to addressing the needs of children in Botswana.
The event hosted at the Botswana Teaching Professionals Council (BOTEPCO), focused on critical discussions surrounding child welfare and basic education and was attended by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education Ms. Elizabeth Khumotaka, BOTEPCO Registrar Dr. Raphael
 Dingalo, Development Partners, Civil Society Organisations and Child Welfare Agencies amongst others.
       

BOTEPCO STAFF TAKES OVER TASHATA JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL

BOTEPCO STAFF TAKES OVER TASHATA JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL

   

The Botswana Teaching Professionals Council (BOTEPCO) initiated an inspiring Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative at Tashata Junior Secondary School, aptly named “BOTEPCO Takes Over Tashata Junior Secondary School.” This noble initiative took place on Monday 21st October, 2024 in Tati Siding. The event highlighted BOTEPCO’s commitment to creating a conducive ecosystem for teachers underscoring their dedication to corporate social responsibility and community engagement.

 

The day was filled with activities that not only benefited the school but also reinforced the bond between BOTEPCO and the Tashata Junior Secondary School Teaching Fraternity as BOTEPCO staff took over roles at the supervision of Tashata JSS Teachers. The Minister of Education and Skills Development, Honourable Dr. Douglas Letsholathebe officiated the Corporate Social Responsibility ground breaking activity by planting Fruit Trees at the Tashata Orchard together with BOTEPCO registrar and other senior government officials including North East Region : Director Regional Operations Mr. Labane Mokgosi and Kgosi Nkageng of Tati Siding.

 

BOTEPCO’s Registrar, Dr. Raphael Dingalo who is a teacher by profession, having been a teacher at Lobatse Senior School and Naledi Senior School assumed the role of an assistant teacher at the Design and Technology Department and delivered a lesson on the Principles of wood gluing and plastic based materials. The rest of BOTEPCO Team took on roles that included, meal preparations for students, litter picking, facilities cleaning as well as teaching. Dr. Dingalo stated that Council’s Corporate Social Responsibility efforts bring significant benefits, including increased brand awareness, recognition, and enhanced customer engagement. By actively participating in CSR activities, Dr. Dingalo noted that companies not only strengthen their reputation but also build stronger ties with the community and contribute to the overall wellbeing of society. Through these initiatives, BOTEPCO aims to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of the Teaching Fraternity and communities they serve. The council’s dedication to social responsibility and education continues to drive its efforts in creating a better, more inclusive future for all.

BOTEPCO Connects with Student Teachers A Milestone Engagement at Tlokweng College of Education

BOTEPCO Connects with Student Teachers A Milestone Engagement at Tlokweng College of Education

As part of ongoing establishment strategy, Botswana Teaching Professionals Council (BOTEPCO) continues to focus on a robust Stakeholder Engagement and Communications Plan aimed at sensitizing its relevant stakeholders nationwide about the mandate and functions of the said Council as part of Change Management.

The Council held its inaugural consultative engagement with student teachers at Tlokweng College of Education, under the theme “Connecting BOTEPCO with Student Teachers.” The event held on Tuesday 10th September, 2024 at Tlokweng marked a significant step in updating and involving future educators in the professionalization of teaching in Botswana.

Delivering the BOTEPCO mandate presentation, Manager Teacher Registration Mr. Shadrack Botshelo emphasized that once the Registration Process starts, it will be a requirement for teachers to be registered and licensed by BOTEPCO in order to practice legally and there will be penalties for non-compliance affecting both individuals and employers for state and private schools nationwide. He reassured attendees that student teachers will receive registration certificates during their studies and will apply for teaching licenses upon graduation and employment.

He further detailed BOTEPCO’s official commencement of operations and its commitment to transforming teaching into a regulated and professional profession. Mr. Botshelo further provided an update on the Council’s notable achievements since commencing operations last year June and clarified the legal requirements for teacher registration and licensing, urging attendees to ensure that all those were in order ahead of the anticipated registration process.

In his welcome remarks, Tlokweng College of Education Principal, Mr Modiakgotla Gaboipone, commended BOTEPCO for its inclusive consultative process and underscored the importance of the Council’s visit to the college. He encouraged student teachers to actively participate and engage with BOTEPCO, acknowledging their vital role in shaping the future of education.

For her part Manager: Teacher Development Mrs. Sylvia Kwape highlighted the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) framework as a cornerstone of BOTEPCO’s initiatives. She emphasized the Council’s dedication to transparency and stakeholder consultation, asserting BOTEPCO’s role as a trustworthy entity.

The CPD framework aims to support lifelong learning and professional excellence, encouraging teachers to stay updated with new trends and continuously enhance their skills. Mrs. Kwape reflected on the rewarding experience of seeing former students succeed and urged student teachers to actively engage in their professional development.

The Council further updated on the Teacher Registration & Licensing System which they stated was currently under development on the 1Gov online platform. They stated that the system which is nearing completion and undergoing User Acceptance Testing, is designed to streamline teacher registration.

The Tlokweng College of Education consultative engagement underscored BOTEPCO’s commitment to involving and supporting student teachers as they embark on their careers in education.

         

Botswana Teaching Professional’s Council is a newly established Body Corporate mandated to professionalize teaching by: maintaining professional and ethical standards; registering and licensing teachers; advocating for the teaching profession amongst others.

BOTEPCO ENGAGES WITH THE SOWA COMMUNITY AT MAKGADIKGADI EPIC

BOTEPCO ENGAGES WITH THE SOWA COMMUNITY AT MAKGADIKGADI EPIC

Botswana Teaching Professional’s Council (BOTEPCO) continued with its robust community stakeholder engagement initiatives by partaking at the recently held Makgadikgadi Epic through the invitation of the Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO).
BOTEPCO staff embraced the spirit of adventure as they engaged with over 6000 patrons of Sowa and Batswana from all corners of the Country at their stall located at the picturesque Lapa Area in Botash Mine Conservation Park.
At the event that attracted enthusiasts and families with a diverse array of activities, from thrilling skydiving and tandem jumps over the Makgadikgadi Pans to serene hot air balloon rides.
Beyond these exhilarating experiences, BOTEPCO reaffirmed its commitment to extend its mandate and services directly to the Sowa and surrounding areas with special focus on the teaching fraternity and its relevant stakeholders.
       
The meaningful highlight was the visit of the BOTEPCO interactive stall by the President of the Republic of Botswana His Excellency Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi. His Excellency the President took time to engage the Registrar Dr. Raphael Dingalo and Staff on the mandate of the council. The President was interested on when BOTEPCO will start registering teachers, whereas the Registrar highlighted that upon the Gazetting of Regulations, the process of registering teachers will commence. Dr Dingalo further let it known that BOTEPCO is engaging in robust stakeholder engagement as part of change management.
       
Speaking at the event, BOTEPCO Registrar Dr. Dingalo highlighted that BOTEPCO’s presence at this year’s Epic allowed BOTEPCO to extend its community-driven mission directly to attendees, engaging them on BOTEPCO’s mandate and providing essential information that bolsters the dedication to teaching profession. at the event, BOTEPCO engaged with a wide array of participants, from teachers, residents to national leaders, emphasizing ongoing efforts to effectively consult with all key stakeholders in preparation for the anticipated teacher registration, highlighted the Manager, Corporate Affairs Mercy Rebaone Thebe.
BOTEPCO remains committed to sharing its mandate, fostering collaboration, and empowering communities.
             

BOTEPCO’s COMMITMENT TOWARDS GIVING BACK SHINES AT SOWA PRIMARY SCHOOL AS STAFF TAKE OVER ROLES TO ENHANCE A CONDUCIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

BOTEPCO’s COMMITMENT TOWARDS GIVING BACK SHINES AT SOWA PRIMARY SCHOOL AS STAFF TAKE OVER ROLES TO ENHANCE A CONDUCIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

Botswana Teaching Professionals Council conducted a Corporate Social Responsibility Engagement titled “BOTEPCO Takes Over Sowa Primary School For Half A Day” on Friday 12th July, 2024. The day was filled with activities that not only benefited the school but also reinforced the bond between BOTEPCO and the Sowa Primary School Teaching Fraternity as BOTEPCO staff took over roles which included teaching, cooking, tree planting, litter picking, and general at the supervision of Sowa Primary School Teachers.
Speaking at the event Honorable Councilor for Sowa, Mr. Mabunga Gadibolae delivered an encouraging message, emphasizing BOTEPCO’s CSI efforts aimed at enhancing a conducive environment for Sowa Primary teachers while encouraging them to support BOTEPCO’s mandate to register and license teachers, as it will benefit them.
     
Through these initiatives, BOTEPCO aims to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of the Teaching Fraternity and communities they serve. The council’s dedication to social responsibility and education continues to drive its efforts in creating a better, more inclusive future for all.

BOTSWANA TEACHING PROFESSIONALS COUNCIL DONATES TO SOWA PRIMARY SCHOOL

BOTSWANA TEACHING PROFESSIONALS COUNCIL DONATES TO SOWA PRIMARY SCHOOL

In an inspiring demonstration of community spirit and corporate social responsibility embracement, Botswana Teaching Professionals Council (BOTEPCO) recently launched an impactful CSR initiative at Sowa Primary School titled : BOTEPCO Takes Over Sowa Primary School CSI Initiative. The event, held on Friday, July 12, 2024, was a testament to BOTEPCO’s dedication to providing conducive educational environments for the teaching fraternity.
Speaking at the event BOTEPCO’s Registrar, Dr. Raphael Dingalo, emphasized BOTEPCO’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives, aligning with Botswana’s Vision 2036 of becoming a compassionate nation. Dr. Dingalo encouraged corporates to contribute and support these initiatives, emphasizing the value of collective action and compassion in community development.
     
He underscored that BOTEPCO staff will be actively engaging in CSI initiatives, reflecting their commitment to working together and fostering compassion in all endeavors.
Acting Chief Executive of the Botswana Organization Tourism, Ms. Keitumetse Setlang, expressed her excitement about BOTEPCO’s timely donation, stating, “The robust partnership between the tourism sector and the educational initiatives is a cornerstone of our economy ultimately enriching our national identity. It is through events like the Makgadikgadi Epic that we elevate our global presence while contributing meaningfully to local communities.”
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BOTEPCO ATTENDS THE 2024 11th AFTRA CONFERENCE & 13th ROUND TABLE IN LUSAKA

BOTEPCO ATTENDS THE 2024 11th AFTRA CONFERENCE & 13th ROUND TABLE IN LUSAKA

The Botswana Teaching Professionals Council delegation comprising of the Registrar and Board members is currently attended the  Africa Federation of Teaching Regulatory Authorities (AFTRA)’s 11th Conference and 13th Roundtable,  in Lusaka, Zambia hosted by the Ministry of Education Zambia,  and the Teaching Council of Zambia from the 6th -11th May, 2024.

The delegation was led by BOTEPCO registrar Dr. Raphael Dingalo and the Board Chairperson Ms. Selang Mogatwane and also included members of the BOTEPCO Board.

Africa Federation of Teaching Regulatory Authorities [AFTRA] is the intergovernmental apex regulatory authority for the teaching profession in Africa. It comprises the Ministries of Education and national agencies regulating teaching in the continent. Inaugurated in 2010 by the Ministers of Education, the key mandates are to ensure that teaching is regulated like other noble professions, and that teachers are of high quality and enjoy recognition and high social status comparable to their peers anywhere in the world.

Therefore, AFTRA coordinates the national regulatory activities of the teaching profession in all African Union Member States. Based on these mandates, AFTRA annually organizes a conference that stands out as the most impactful and popular summit for charting the way forward for the teaching profession in Africa.

The AFTRA conference draws delegates, speakers and participants from across Africa and other regions of the world. These include the Ministers of Education, Directors from the Ministries of Education, Chief Executive Officers of national teaching regulatory authorities, African Union Commission, UNESCO, Paris/International Task Force on Teachers and UNESCO agencies like the UNESCO International Institute for Capacity Building in Africa, Commonwealth of Learning, Education International, renowned scholars from the academia, leadership of the teacher unions, industry experts and many more.

The conference featured remarkable programmes such as the Opening Ceremony which was officiated by the Zambia Vice President Her Honor Mrs. Mutale Nalumango on the 7th May, 2024, conferment of AFTRA’s Gold Medal on the President of the host country; a session for the Ministers of Education in Africa and heads of international organizations; and an intercontinental session where experts beyond Africa make technical presentations.

There were also conference paper presentations, special training by UNESCO International Institute for Capacity Building in Africa, tourist attractions, and the cultural eve. The last day was crowned the AFTRA’s Roundtable (Annual General Meeting) where important decisions were taken about the teaching profession in Africa.

It is worth noting that BOTEPCO’s Registrar, Board Chairperson & Board Vice Chairperson are members of the AFTRA Board and actively took part in the 2024 Conference and Round Table discussions.

MoESD PERMANENT SECRETARY MS. KHUMOTAKA PAYS AN OFFICIAL COURTESY VISIT TO BOTEPCO

MoESD PERMANENT SECRETARY MS. KHUMOTAKA PAYS AN OFFICIAL COURTESY VISIT TO BOTEPCO

The Ministry of Education and Skills Development (MoESD) newly appointed Permanent Secretary Ms. Elizabeth Bonolo Khumotaka paid an official courtesy visit to the Botswana Teaching Professionals Council (BOTEPCO) on Wednesday 10th April, 2024 as part of her ongoing familiarization initiative with the Ministry’s state-owned enterprises (SOE’s) and institutions nationwide.

Ms. Khumotaka who joined the MoESD on the 1st of April, explained that her visit to BOTEPCO was fundamental in equipping her with solid information regarding BOTEPCO’s mandate, achievements, and challenges which are instrumental in the 5-year strategic plan that the Ministry is current working on.

Giving an overview of BOTEPCO’s mandate and latest developments since commencing operations in June 2023, the registrar Dr. Raphael Dingalo highlighted that the Council was elated to have been afforded the opportunity to host the Permanent Secretary and her delegation.

       

He stated the five areas that BOTEPCO is prioritising in setting up so as to professionalise the teacher fraternity being; Stakeholder Engagement, Registration and Licensing System; gazetting the regulations, Teaching Standards, Code of Ethics and Continuous Professional Development Framework. Dr. Dingalo further briefed the PS on the ongoing stakeholder engagement exercise that the council embarked on since October 2023 which prioritised the teaching fraternity nationwide, parastatals, government departments and the current local government councils. In addition, he stated that; “BOTEPCO is currently working round the clock on the “GO LIVE” planning  which shall mark the commencement of the teacher registration and licensing process scheduled to take place within this new 2024/25 financial year.”

For her part, Ms. Khumotaka applauded BOTEPCO for having hit the ground running in its establishment process and its vigorous stakeholder engagement exercise, which she highlighted as a strategic and effective approach towards learning, and understanding the needs of the teaching fraternity in order for the council to serve them well, and according to expectations. She further commended BOTEPCO for its continued engagement and consultation of the teacher representative unions in its establishment and stated that her Ministry will ensure that the Council is given all the support it needs to deliver its mandate efficiently for the benefit of the teaching fraternity and the education sector in the country.

       

The Botswana Teaching Professional’s Council (BOTEPCO) which recently relocated its operational premises to Fairgrounds in Gaborone is a newly established Body Corporate mandated to professionalize teaching by: maintaining professional and ethical standards; registering and licensing teachers; advocating for the teaching profession amongst others.

We Are Moving

We Are Moving

 

We are thrilled to announce that we are transitioning our premises to a new location in efforts to serve you better.

As of Monday 08th April, 2024 Botswana Teaching Professionals Council offices will be located at Plot 63726 Fairgrounds Gaborone.

Feel free to contact our Corporate Affairs Department on +267 766 34 994 should you need further clarifications.

BOTEPCO EMBARKS ON CONSULTATIVE ENGAGEMENTS WITH LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCILS

BOTEPCO EMBARKS ON CONSULTATIVE ENGAGEMENTS WITH LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCILS

                                      

Botswana Teaching Professionals Council (BOTEPCO) has commenced its next round of stakeholder engagements, this time with Local Government Councils countrywide. The first engagement started with Gaborone City Full Council meeting which was held on 22nd March, 2024 at the Council Chambers in Gaborone.

During his address, the Registrar Dr. Raphael Dingalo emphasized that in sharing the BOTEPCO mandate they took into consideration the Councillors importance as the community leadership considering that they deal with different stakeholders in the various communities they lead, including BOTEPCO’s main stakeholders being the teachers.

Dr. Dingalo highlighted  that teachers link together students, other teachers, school administrators, families, and community members to foster the learning success and healthy development of their students, citing International Policy Briefs which notes as follows; when schools, parents, families, and communities work together to support learning, students tend to earn higher grades, attend school more regularly, stay in school longer, and enrol in higher level programs.

  

He also shared the five areas that BOTEPCO is prioritising in setting up so as to professionalise the teacher fraternity being; Stakeholder Engagement, Registration and Licensing System; gazetting the regulations, Teaching Standards, Code of Ethics and Continuous Professional Development Framework.

The GCC Deputy Mayor Honorable Oduetse Tautona, greatly appreciated BOTEPCO’s initiative of engaging them and the professional conduct displayed by the BOTEPCO staff. This was further reinforced by other Councilors during the question and answer session.

Honourable Councillor Mrs. Motamma Horatius commended BOTEPCO for doing a good job in focusing on teacher professionalism as it will propel the education sector and improve learner results and contribute significantly towards human capital development in Botswana and improvement in the quality of education in general.

  

Honourable Councilor Mr. Lotty Manyepetsa applauded the Registrar and his team for honouring them as Councilors, encouraging BOTEPCO to work with teacher unions and other relevant stakeholders including the Ministry of Education and Skills Development in transforming the teaching fraternity, while the Honourable Councillor Mr. Oarabile Motlaleng buttressed  and was also thankful at the gesture to update them. Amongst other questions, he inquired whether there will be a preliminary test that teachers would have to take, as registration entry requirements. The response was that BOTEPCO is still engaging on the matter and will give an update to be communicated in due course.

For her part, Gaborone District Commissioner Ms. Dintle Setlhotlhe encouraged BOTEPCO to ensure that the teaching fraternity is involved and plays a significant role in the development of teaching standards and code of ethics that will propel their sector to greater heights.

The Botswana Teaching Professional’s Council (BOTEPCO) is a newly established Body Corporate mandated to professionalize teaching by: maintaining professional and ethical standards; registering and licensing teachers; advocating for the teaching profession amongst others