Africa-Press – Botswana. The introduction of free Wi-Fi through the SmartBots initiative is a life-changing event for Batswana who previously had limited access to the Internet.
Francistown East MP, Mr Buti Billy said this at a kgotla meeting at Donga in Francistown recently.
“The initiative is a welcome development because Batswana who previously had little access to the Internet are now able to connect and access world information and opportunities,” Mr Billy said.
He said that while there were challenges to overcome, such as the cost of devices and limited infrastructure, the SmartBots initiative was changing lives and bringing hope to many.
He therefore encouraged the youth to take the initiative seriously and to use it for positive purposes, such as education and entrepreneurship and avoid using it for negative activities like cyberbullying and spreading propaganda.
“We want to see our young people harnessing the power of the internet to make a positive impact in their communities and the world at large. Use SmartBots to research and gain knowledge on areas you intend to invest in,” he added.
Mr Billy commended government for the SmartBots initiative, which he said had brought change within communities.
He stated that having free internet access had ensured that everyone had equal access to information and resources.
“This is backed up by the case that there is an evident improvement in grades, for schools around Donga,” he said.
He also stated that free internet access also promoted social inclusion as it allowed people to connect with others and participate in online communities.
Furthermore, he encouraged parents and teachers to play their roles in ensuring that their children attained the best education.
“Parents should monitor their children both in and out of school,” he said.
Ward Development Committee deputy chairperson, Mr Prince Aaron expressed concern about the bush around the Donga area.
He said some people claimed to have been allocated land in the area, but failed to produce title deeds upon request.
“These bushy areas are used as hideouts by criminals and this poses as a threat to the community,” he said.
In response, Mr Billy urged those who had been allocated plots to develop them to avoid repossession by the government.
For her part, Kgosi Lerato Mogopodi of Donga also underscored the importance of the SmartBots and Mindset Change initiative.
Kgosi Mogopodi encouraged parents to ensure that their children attended classes.
“Let us really make sure our children are going to school for learning and not to engage in anything not school related,” she added.
She also urged the community to register for elections whilst there was still time.
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