Africa-Press – Botswana. In an outstanding achievement for Botswana’s education sector, three students from St Joseph’s College have secured international scholarships valued at P820 000.00 to study in India.
The opportunity comes after their victorious performance in the National School Quiz Competition (NSQC) World Series 2024 Championship.
In addition to the scholarship, the students have been awarded a fully sponsored educational tour to India in August, providing them with a unique learning and cultural experience. St. Joseph’s College clinched first place in the NSQC World Series 2024, beating teams from around the globe.
Three students from Ledumang Senior Secondary School followed closely in second place, earning a 75% scholarship for remarkable performance, while three students from Naledi Secondary School, the third-place winners, also received high praise for their achievements.
Speaking during the NSCQ trophy and scholarships handover ceremony, organised by Ian P Universal (Pty) Ltd in Gaborone on Wednesday, the Assistant Minister of Basic Education and Child Welfare, Mr Justin Hunyepa, commended the participating schools for representing Botswana on the world stage and congratulating the winners for their stellar performance. “I want to congratulate St Joseph’s College for their sterling performance in securing first place. Ledumang Senior Secondary and Naledi Secondary School have also made us proud by earning second and third place, respectively,” he added.
Mr Hunyepa said the NSQC World Series has proven that when learners were given the right platform, equipped with the right skills, and encouraged to follow their passion and collaborate as a team, they can excel internationally.
He emphasised the significance of the achievement, noting that the students’ success has not only placed Botswana on the global map but also significantly reduced the financial burden on the government regarding university tuition fees.
He said the international scholarships awarded by Education For All (EDOOFA) would help the students pursue their higher education without the heavy costs traditionally associated with studying abroad. “Just a year later, our learners from these three senior schools have already made their mark on the world stage, and by securing top positions, our students have represented Botswana with pride; they have earned these scholarships, and this speaks volumes about their determination, focus, and grace,” Mr Hunyepa added.
Mr Hunyepa also praised Ian P Universal and EDOOFA for their commitment to supporting local education through such impactful initiatives.
He emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships (PPP) in the socio-economic development of the country, urging the business community to continue partnering with the government in initiatives that inspire others and leave lasting impacts. “It is clear that the government cannot achieve these milestones alone. I urge the private sector and business community to join hands with the ministry in driving initiatives that promote academic excellence and shape the future of our children,” he said.
Mr Hunyepa acknowledged the teachers for their hard work in preparing the students for the competition, as well as their ongoing support in preparing students for examinations, saying their work clearly has borne fruit. “I am deeply humbled by your dedication, you have inspired your students, and today we see the fruits of that effort,” he emphasised.
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